The Bureau of Meteorology has forecast temperatures in the mid to high 30s for the Wimmera and Mallee weather districts and the chance of storms.
On Sunday, we may see elevated fire dangers, possibly into the Severe level in the Wimmera and Mallee districts. CFAs current Fire Danger Rating chart can be viewed here: www.cfa.vic.gov.au/restrictions/tfbfdrforecast.htm
CFA Chief Officer Euan Ferguson said over the weekend it is important that people who live in or visit the Wimmera and Mallee districts, in particular, monitor the weather and fire conditions closely.
“Certainly, on Sunday, we need Victorians in the western part of the state to be prepared and alert. Even though we have received recent rainfall, this is still very much a dangerous day.
“Now the weather is heating up, all Victorians need to know the Fire Danger Rating for their area, be aware of the rules if a Total Fire Ban Day is declared and take extra care.
“Christmas is special time of the year when people like to enjoy a barbeque and it is important that you take extra care during these warmer weather conditions.”
“We would hate to have Christmas ruined by fires and with the fuel loads around the state drying out and the hot days coming up the risk is very real.
“We will also be heightening our protection to the community with the State Control Centre in full operation on Saturday and Sunday.”
SEVERE -- What does it mean?
Expect hot, dry and possibly windy conditions.
If a fire starts and takes hold, it may be uncontrollable.
Well prepared homes that are actively defended can provide safety.
You must be physically and mentally prepared to defend in these conditions.
What should I do?
- Well prepared homes that are actively defended can provide safety - check your bushfire survival plan.
- Even if you are prepared, leaving bushfire prone areas early in the day is your safest option.
- Avoid forested areas, thick bush or long, dry grass.
- Be aware of local conditions and seek information by listening to your emergency broadcasters, go to cfa.vic.gov.au or call the Victorian Bushfire Information Line on 1800 240 667.
Remember: Staying to defend a well prepared property is very difficult and can be extremely risky. There is no guarantee that a fire truck or fire fighters will be able to assist you. Your life may be at risk or you may be seriously injured defending your property.
Victorians should monitor the weather and conditions with updated bushfire information available from the CFA website at www.cfa.vic.gov.au, the Victorian Bushfire Information Line on 1800 240 667, radio and other media outlets.
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