Eastern View and Memorial Arch residents issued a prepare to evacuate warning

THE Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning is recommending Eastern View and Memorial Arch residents evacuate due to a nearby bushfire and today’s extreme fire danger rating, while Lorne and Kennett River residents are advised to stay informed of under control bushfires.

DEWLP said there is a fire at 0.3Km north of Eastern View that is under control but has noted that today is a day of extreme fire danger rating, with the BOM issuing a weather warning for wind gusts between 60 and 70 kilometres an hour.

DEWLP has said Eastern View/Memorial Arch fire is currently under control, but embers Embers can be carried by the wind over large distances ahead.

It is believed the bushfire could impact Eastern View and Memorial Arch, and surrounding locations any time between 6am and 2pm today.

The department says people evacuating should pack the following:

• Cash
• Clothing for three days
• Medicine for three days
• Phone and chargers
• Toiletries
• Important documents
• Momentos and photos
• Pet essentials, including leash and carriers.
• If possible, make sure your neighbours are aware of the situation and check if they need help.
• Check the VicRoads website for road closures.
• Be aware of any road closures when you leave.

People are advised to leave when ready and not to wait to be told when to leave.

The department advises people to go to friends and family in a safer location.

Forest Fire Management has advised Lorne residents located east of Erskine Falls Road to stay informed of a bushfire 1 km north of Lorne that is under control, as well as advised Kennett River residents to stay informed of an under control bushfire near Kennett River

BOM has issued a weather warning for wind ranging between 60 and 70 kilometre with gusts up to 90 kilometres an hour on Saturday between 6am and 2pm.

There is currently no threat to Lorne or Kennett River residents, but residents should stay informed and have a plan if the situations changes.

For more, head to www.emergency.vic.gov.au