Increased fire risk for parts of Victoria throughout Autumn

THE Australian Seasonal Bushfire Outlook for Autumn has been released, indicating an increased risk of fire for parts of the state, including western and central Victoria.

Driven by a lack of rain in the past 12 to 24 months, there is an increased amount of fuel in forests and heathlands with average rainfall predicted in Autumn, dry conditions are expected to remain.

Temperatures are also predicted to remain above normal for the majority of the country, increasing the available fuels and making it easier for a fire to start and spread.

“While conditions remain dry with little rain forecast in certain parts of that state over the coming weeks, the fire risk will continue, but our crews are ready and will adapt to changes as they develop through autumn,” CFA chief officer Jason Heffernan said.

“Victorians should continue to maintain their properties and stay informed of their local risks so they can take action to protect their families in the event of a fire.”

The Seasonal Outlook is developed by expert fire specialists around Australia and climate prediction and fire weather experts from the Bureau of Meteorology.

Local fire authorities across Australia will continue to monitor bushfire risk in key areas, while some agencies begin planned burns to help reduce risk in future months.

Planned burning may be delayed across some parts of the state due to the conditions, while other areas will have an increased opportunity.

In the event of a fire, Victoria remains prepared with water bombing aircraft, air supervision and air intelligence gathering aircraft across the state to assist.

Communities are encouraged to stay up-to-date with current conditions and Fire Danger Ratings on the VicEmeregency app and VicEmergency website.

For more information, head to cfa.vic.gov.au