Victorians are being urged to prepare for warmer temperatures and an increase in fire activity across large parts of the state this summer.
This is according to the Australian Seasonal Bushfire Outlook for Summer 2024 (External link) released today by AFAC. AFAC is the National Council for fire and emergency services.
A lack of rainfall has resulted in more fuels available and an increased chance of fires across:
- most of western and northeastern Victoria
- parts of greater Melbourne, Mornington Peninsula and southwest Gippsland.
A dry 18-months in southwest Victoria has also resulted in more fuel within forests. This makes it easier for fires to start and spread.
Over summer, there is a higher chance of warmer maximum day and night temperatures.
While the rest of the state is forecast to be at a normal risk, fires can still occur. Fast running fires are possible on hot, dry and windy days.
Victoria’s emergency services remain well prepared for the potential of fires. At least 54 dedicated aircraft will be positioned across the state as part of the core fleet for the higher risk weather season. This includes a mix of water bombing, air supervision and air intelligence gathering aircraft. Aircraft can be moved quickly, according to risk.
The aerial firefighting fleet will support the efforts of thousands of dedicated emergency services personnel from agencies such as:
- Country Fire Authority
- Forest Fire Management Victoria
- Fire Rescue Victoria
- VICSES.
Preparedness is a shared responsibility. It’s important for communities to take action and understand their local risks.
The community is encouraged to create a fire plan (External link) and reduce the vegetation around the home by mowing and cleaning gutters.
More information about Fire Danger Ratings and warnings can be found on the VicEmergency app and VicEmergency website (External link).
The department acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as the Traditional Custodians of the land and acknowledges and pays respect to their Elders, past and present.