A Total Fire Ban has been declared in the Mallee and Wimmera fire weather districts, for Sunday 15 February 2015.
Despite milder conditions south of the Great Divide, temperatures are expected to hit the high 30’s and low 40’s over north-west parts of the state and, Victoria’s fire services are warning people to be fire ready.
CFA State Duty Officer Peter Lucas said while much of Victoria has received a drenching, the Mallee and Wimmera had received less than 5mm.
“The state’s north-west and far west is still very dry and ready to burn,” he said.
“Forecast high temperatures combined with windy conditions, pose severe fire danger in the north west and far west on Sunday.”
Victorians can find out what they can and can’t do on a day of Total Fire Ban here and can check their local Fire Danger Rating here.
Mr Lucas said while conditions had been milder, February was traditionally the peak of the summer fire season and the fire danger would remain for some weeks to come.
He urged Victorians to stay informed and to never rely on just one source of information.
Victorians can keep up to date via:
- ABC local radio, commercial and designated radio station or Sky News
- The FireReady app – which send push notifications for incidents, Total Fire Band and Fire Danger Ratings
- The emergency.vic.gov.au website
- Victorian Bushfire Information Line 1800 240 667
- CFA Twitter and Facebook accounts
“Don’t rely on receiving a warning before deciding what to do in the event of a fire. Emergency services may not be able to come to your aid, so have a plan. You, and your family’s safety, is your responsibility,” Mr Lucas said.
“Stay safe and be alert.”
Author: CFA Media