With temperatures set to soar across the state this Labour Day long weekend, the CFA is urging Central Victorians to be prepared for persistent fire risk as they embark on their travels.
Although recent fires across the Grampians, Beaufort and Dereel are now under control, crews remain active on the ground.
Temperatures are set to reach the high 30s and low 40s this weekend.
The Australasian Fire and Emergency Service Authorities Autumn Seasonal Bushfire Outlook released last week indicates Victoria had above-average summer rainfall and less than average bushfire activity, little to no rainfall since mid-January shifted things significantly in the west of the state.
CFA Chief Officer, Jason Heffernan, is encouraging travellers to familiarise themselves this weekend with the fire district they are entering or basing themselves in.
“While the recent bushfires have been contained by our incredible firefighters, fire risk will continue to linger over the coming months,” CO Hefferan says.
“With the lack of recent rain, fuel loads in our drier forested areas will increase, and our greener grasslands will continue to dry out.
“Victorians simply need to be in tune with the fire and weather conditions around them.”
CO Heffernan expects grassfire risk will persist throughout March and reminds all Victorians to download the VicEmergency app to remain alert to the fires in their region.
“Grassfires can move at speeds of up to 25km per hour and can jump highways, so you must be prepared to alter your route if required,” CO Heffernan says.
“Avoid driving through high-risk areas on hot, dry, windy days if you can, and monitor conditions through two or more sources of local information.
“We’re particularly asking those living in the western part of the state, or those who plan on travelling in that direction to regularly check the Fire Danger Ratings.”
The Fire Danger Period is still in place across all municipalities across the state.
