Total fire ban declared for today

Strong and gusty winds, combined with very dry fuels, will increase the risk of fast-moving fires.

There is also the potential for thunderstorms, which may bring damaging winds and dry lightning, creating the risk of new fire starts.

A Total Fire Ban means no fire can be lit in the open air or allowed to remain alight from 12.01am to 11.59pm.

CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan said the extended period of heat, combined with dry landscapes and wind, will make conditions extremely challenging.

“We’re seeing day after day of extreme heat, with little overnight relief,” Jason said.

“Tomorrow’s conditions will make it very difficult for firefighters to suppress a fire should one start, particularly in grassland areas where fuels have cured significantly.”

“With the added risk of gusty winds and possible dry lightning from thunderstorms, fires can start quickly and spread rapidly.”

“We’re asking people to strictly follow the Total Fire Ban conditions, consider postponing harvesting and cropping activities, and make sure your bushfire plan is up to date and ready to act on.”

“It’s really important people take action early to protect themselves and their families. Understand how these conditions could affect you, know when you will leave, and don’t wait until it’s too late.”

“Download the VicEmergency App, stay informed, and have more than one way to receive warnings.”

Victorians can find out if it is a Total Fire Ban on the CFA website, where it is usually published by 5pm the day before a Total Fire Ban.

For more information on what you can and can’t do, visit the Can I or Can’t I page on the CFA website.

Victorians should also make sure they have access to more than one source of information, including:

•ABC local radio, commercial and designated Sky News radio stations

•The VicEmergency App

•The VicEmergency website

•The VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226

•CFA or VicEmergency social media channels