Locations Affected: Australia
Several states across southeastern Australia face severe fire conditions that have led to evacuations. Fires have already affected several areas in Victoria, including Grampians National Park, Bullengarook, Creswick, and the Gurdies. The fire at Grampians National Park has been burning since 17 December and has covered more than 75,000 hectares. The fire danger is exacerbated by hot and dry weather across Victoria, southwest New South Wales, and eastern South Australia. These conditions are expected to be the worst since the 2019-2020 Black Summer bushfire season, which caused 5.5 million hectares of land to be burned.
Climate Change Affecting Weather Conditions
The high temperatures are due to a high-pressure trough moving through South Australia and the border region to Victoria. Climate change, driven by human activity, has led to frequent dry conditions, increased temperatures, and an increased risk of bushfires.
Warnings and Evacuation Orders Issued
- On 26 December, the Victoria State Control Center forecasted strong, gusty winds that could start new fires and spread existing ones. They advised against travel unless necessary.
- On 26 December, a total fire ban was imposed in Victoria, the mid-north region of South Australia, Riverland, and Murraylands and was later rescinded on 27 December. However, fire danger rating remains high for the entire state.
- Authorities have urged people living in areas affected by bushfires to evacuate and asked people to monitor the Vic Emergency app and local radio stations for updates and instructions. Authorities also issued an emergency warning for Mafeking, a small town 260 kilometers west of Melbourne.
- Communities in Bellellen, Pomonal and Black Range have been asked to leave immediately, while those in Barton, Jimmy Creek, Kia Ora, Londonderry, Mafeking, Moyston, Watgania and Willaura North have been urged to take shelter.
- As of 27 December, fires at The Gurdies in Gippsland and Bullengarook have been contained.
Active Wildfires in Australia (https://myfirewatch.landgate.wa.gov.au/map.html#)
Weather Forecast and Possible Impact
High temperatures and strong gusts of up to 100 km/h are forecasted to continue until 28 December, exacerbating fire dangers across Victoria. The winds could lead to the felling of trees and power lines, causing power outages. Power providers may also trigger outages to prevent the start of bushfires. Changes in wind directions from northwest to west could fuel the bushfire in Grampians National Park. Residents near the Grampians National Park could experience disruptions in communication due to damage to a communications tower on Mount Williams. Smoke from the bushfire could affect areas in Melbourne and increase the risk of respiratory ailments for people residing in affected regions. Fire and smoke conditions could lead to travel disruptions and restrictions. Organizations are advised to stay updated about the situation and warnings issued through the Vic Emergency app and take necessary actions as recommended by authorities.
