What is the current situation with bushfires in Victoria, Australia?

A state of disaster has been declared in Victoria, Australia, due to severe bushfires exacerbated by a heatwave.

How many houses have been destroyed in the Victoria bushfires?

Early reports indicate at least 20 houses have been destroyed in the small town of Ruffy.

What is the 'Black Summer' bushfire event in Australia?

The 'Black Summer' refers to the devastating bushfires that occurred across Australia's eastern seaboard from late 2019 to early 2020.

Home / Environment / Victoria Bushfires Rage: State of Disaster Declared

Victoria Bushfires Rage: State of Disaster Declared

10 Jan

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Summary

Victoria, Australia, declared a state of disaster amid severe bushfires.
At least 20 houses destroyed near Ruffy, with three people missing.
Fires have burned nearly 150,000 hectares during a dangerous heatwave.

Victoria Bushfires Rage: State of Disaster Declared

Victoria, Australia, is under a state of disaster as relentless bushfires, fanned by a severe heatwave, have destroyed homes and vast tracts of forest. Temperatures exceeding 40C created dangerous fire weather, reminiscent of the 2019-2020 "Black Summer" fires. A significant blaze near Longwood has consumed nearly 150,000 hectares, with early assessments revealing at least 20 houses lost in the small town of Ruffy.

Emergency powers have been enacted, allowing for forced evacuations as fire crews work to contain over 30 ongoing fires. Three people, including a child, are reported missing in one of the most perilous fire grounds. State premier Jacinta Allan stressed the paramount importance of protecting lives, urging immediate departure for those advised to evacuate. The fires are largely concentrated in rural areas, with the night sky glowing orange from the infernos.