Photo: AFAC released its Summer Seasonal Outlook for Victoria today.
Victoria is facing an increased risk of fires in western and central Victoria this summer, according to the AFAC Seasonal Bushfire Outlook for Summer.
Victoria’s emergency management sector is continuing its preparedness for the high-risk weather season and Victorians are being urged to actively prepare too.
While it has been cold and still wet in some parts of the state, it is time for individuals, families and communities to think about preparedness ahead of summer.
The Australian Seasonal Bushfire Outlook for Summer, gives a national picture of the likelihood of an increased number of fires over the summer months.
A wet three years followed by a very dry winter and spring has led to above-normal fuel in western and central Victoria and along the Surf Coast leading to increased fire potential.
High levels of forest growth in areas across East Gippsland have also become dry and may pose a fire risk later in the summer.
The rest of the state is facing normal fire risk. On hot, dry and windy days, fires are possible as areas dry out.
Victoria remains well prepared for the potential of fires, with a mix of water bombing aircraft, air supervision and air intelligence gathering aircraft positioned across the state. These support thousands dedicated volunteers and career firefighters on the ground, trucks, heavy machinery and plant equipment.
For the first time in Victoria, communities can also create a fire plan online, customised to their needs and sharable with family and friends.
The Australian Seasonal Bushfire Outlook for Summer is developed by AFAC, the National Council for fire and emergency services and supported by the Bureau of Meteorology along with state and territory fire and land managers.
It’s important for communities to understand their local risks. Keep up to date with the Fire Danger Ratings on the VicEmergency App and VicEmergency website. Make a via plan via the new Online Fire Planner.
Quotes attributable to Country Fire Authority Chief Officer, Jason Heffernan
“While Victorians can expect fire risk in the coming months to be above-average across south-western and central Victoria, rest assured, they will be well-protected this fire season.
“Alongside our interagency partners, CFA crews across the state have been working closely with their local areas and brigade members to ensure we are best prepared for the proposed conditions.
“While we’re ready to respond and support communities as we do every year, now is the time for Victorians to prepare their families, and their property and review their Bushfire Survival Plan.