Residents of Mafeking and Watgania are being told to get out NOW as a massive bushfire in Victoria’s Grampians National Park continues to rage out of control.
An emergency warning has been issued, with authorities warning that an afternoon wind change could push the blaze towards the two communities.
The Fire is Getting Worse
The fire has already grown to a massive 7800 hectares since it was sparked by lightning strikes on Tuesday. And with an afternoon wind change expected, firefighters are bracing for a challenging day ahead.
“This is one that’s unfortunately going to be with us for quite a while,” said State Control Centre spokesman Luke Hegarty. “This afternoon, we are expecting this fire to really have the potential to grow.”
Tourism Takes a Hit
The fire has already had a devastating impact on tourism in the area, with cancellations pouring in for campsites and hiking trips. Dunkeld Caravan Park caretaker Erin Hinchliffe said they’ve had 30 cancellations, leaving just four sites booked.
“I think we’re starting to get a little bit on edge because of not knowing what’s actually going to happen with the weather patterns today… I know a lot of resources have been put into it,” she told ABC Radio Melbourne.
Other Fires Burning Across Victoria
The Grampians fire is just one of at least six fires burning across Victoria, with a watch and act warning issued for Woodland Close and The Gurdies near French Island. Authorities have also urged residents of Karabeal to stay near shelter after a grassfire sparked near Walters road.
Red Skies and Smoke
The massive blaze has blanketed parts of Victoria and Melbourne in smoke, producing an orange-tinged sky. Heavy smoke has been reported around Ballarat, Dandenong, Point Cook, Caroline Springs, Sunshine, Moonee Ponds, and Bacchus Marsh.
Air Quality Warning
An air quality warning has been issued for areas around the Grampians National Park, but not yet for other parts of the state. VicEmergency warns that smoke can be carried long distances in the atmosphere, and residents may see or smell smoke in their area.
Firefighting Efforts
Two air tankers have been water bombing the fire continuously, assisting a significant deployment of the state’s aerial firefighting resources. Despite the challenges, some roads and areas of the Southern Grampians are closed, but large, popular tourist sections of the national park remain open to visitors.
Stay Informed and Stay Safe
With extreme fire danger forecast and total fire bans in place for the Wimmera and Mallee districts, it’s crucial to stay informed and stay safe. Keep an eye on VicEmergency for updates, and follow the instructions of local authorities.