How large is the Otways fire and where could it spread?

The Otways fire has burned approximately 9,400 hectares and could potentially spread as far as Lorne.

Why are residents being urged to evacuate in Victoria?

Residents in several towns are urged to evacuate due to a large fire and the anticipated onset of a severe heatwave with extreme fire danger conditions.

What are the fire conditions expected to be in Victoria?

Fire conditions are forecast to be extreme in five districts across Victoria, with temperatures potentially reaching 49C and significant wind changes expected.

Home / Disasters and Accidents / Otways Fire Threatens Lorne Amid Victoria Heatwave

Otways Fire Threatens Lorne Amid Victoria Heatwave

26 Jan

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Summary

Otways fire has consumed 9,400 hectares and could reach Lorne.
Over 1,000 homes urged to evacuate ahead of severe heatwave.
Extreme fire danger forecast for multiple Victorian districts.

Otways Fire Threatens Lorne Amid Victoria Heatwave

A fire in Victoria's Otways region has burned about 9,400 hectares and authorities are concerned it could spread towards Lorne. Residents in the south-western Victorian towns of Gellibrand, Kawarren, Beech Forest, Forrest, Barongarook, and surrounding areas were urged to evacuate. This urgent measure anticipates the onset of a severe heatwave expected on Tuesday.

Six fires were active across Victoria on Monday. The Otways fire, in particular, breached containment lines on Saturday afternoon. Officials are worried that Tuesday's heat and forecast northerly winds could cause the fire to spread significantly, potentially impacting communities and reaching as far as Lorne or Aireys Inlet. A statewide total fire ban has been issued for Tuesday.

Fire conditions are predicted to be extreme in five districts, including the Central, Mallee, North Central, South West, and Wimmera regions. Temperatures are expected to reach extreme levels, with some areas forecast to hit 49C. This intensity of heat has not been seen in Victoria since 2009, and combined with a significant wind change, it will make firefighting efforts extremely challenging.