Urgent Alert: Grampians Bushfire Forces Immediate Evacuations—Is Your Safety at Risk?

Victoria police have implemented a comprehensive security perimeter for an upcoming event anticipated to draw around 25,000 activists. This increased protection aims to ensure safety and maintain order amid large gatherings.

P24 News Media

December 18, 2024

1 minute

Urgent Alert: Grampians Bushfire Forces Immediate Evacuations—Is Your Safety at Risk?

India

A community in the south-west region of Victoria is experiencing heightened anxiety today due to a bushfire that is currently raging uncontrollably within the boundaries of Grampians National Park. In response to the emergency situation, residents of Mirranatwa, the Grampians, and Victoria Valley have been advised to evacuate immediately, as an emergency warning is still in effect.

The fire is advancing in a north-westerly direction, spreading from Grampians Road towards Victoria Valley Road. For the most current updates regarding the emergency and safety precautions, residents are encouraged to consult the VicEmergency website.

As of yesterday afternoon, a local resident captured alarming images of the fire's impact near Mirranatwa. VicEmergency has issued warnings indicating that private properties in the vicinity have been affected and will remain at risk for at least the next three hours. The message from officials is clear: "Leaving immediately is the safest option, before conditions become too dangerous." There is an additional warning that emergency responders may not be able to assist those who choose to stay behind.

Community members residing in Mirranatwa have been informed that they might observe the fire's glow and embers illuminating the night sky. For those planning to evacuate, it is advised to utilize Victoria Valley Road, heading in the direction of Dunkeld.

For individuals traveling near this area, officials have advised making a safe U-turn to ensure their safety. A relief center is being set up at 14 Sterling Place in Dunkeld to assist those affected by the fire. Meanwhile, heavy smoke has enveloped the region, creating a significant smoke plume that is even visible from outer space. This smoke plume has continued to expand since the fire ignited yesterday afternoon, posing additional challenges for both residents and emergency services.

Grampians National Park is located approximately 258 kilometers from Melbourne, underscoring the fire's proximity to populated areas. Earlier this week, firefighters were engaged in a struggle against another out-of-control blaze in central Victoria, following some of the hottest weather the region has seen this year. In September, the National Council for Fire and Emergency Services issued a caution regarding the potential dangers associated with this fire season.

Regions in southwestern Victoria, particularly the Wimmera, Grampians National Park, and parts of Mallee country, have been identified as having an elevated risk. The report stated that the current level of dryness in these landscapes is substantial, and without significant rainfall during the spring, the flammability of the vegetation in forests and woodlands is likely to remain high. This raises concerns that the bushfire season may commence earlier than usual in these vulnerable areas.