A state of disaster has been declared across Victoria as the Australian state grapples with an escalating bushfire crisis described as the worst since the devastating Black Summer of 2019-2020. Premier Jacinta Allan announced the emergency measure overnight, covering 18 local government areas and the Lake Mountain Alpine Resort.
Widespread Destruction and Tragic Loss
The fires have already claimed one life, with a man in his 60s found dead in his vehicle in the central Victorian town of Harcourt late on Friday. At least ten homes have been confirmed destroyed, and more than 50,000 hectares of bushland have been razed. The situation remains dire, with authorities warning that some communities have been 'completely obliterated'.
In the hard-hit town of Longwood, approximately 50km north of Melbourne, a fast-moving grass fire has created apocalyptic scenes. 'The main street looks like a bomb's gone off,' said local Country Fire Authority (CFA) captain George Noye. The fire has now grown to an alarming 145,000 hectares in size. Tragically, two adults and a child remain unaccounted for in Longwood after their home was destroyed; they were last seen taking shelter as it was too late to evacuate.
Catastrophic Conditions and Statewide Response
A total fire ban is in effect across Victoria as firefighters battle multiple out-of-control blazes. The most significant fires include the massive Longwood fire, which has burned over 35,000 hectares, and a separate blaze near the border town of Walwa, which has torn through more than 17,000 hectares of pine plantation.
Strathbogie Shire deputy mayor Claire Ewart-Kennedy, speaking from the affected area of Wahring, described the situation as 'catastrophic' and 'devastating'. Critical infrastructure for tens of thousands of people, including drinking water, power, and telecommunications, has been severely impacted.
Premier Allan stated the declaration was a direct response to the danger to life and property, sending a clear message that those advised to leave must do so if possible. The state government has pledged immediate assistance for those who have lost homes, including aid for food, clothing, and medication, with extended payments to follow. Support will also be available for farmers who have lost livestock and crops.
Heatwave Fuels Fire Danger Across Eastern States
The crisis in Victoria coincides with a severe heatwave threatening New South Wales. Sydney is bracing for scorching temperatures of up to 43°C on Saturday, with the intense heat and strong winds creating extreme fire danger. A total fire ban is also in place across Greater Sydney, where more than 40 fires are burning and 600 firefighters are on standby.
NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) Commissioner Trent Curtin confirmed his service is prepared, with around 50 aircraft currently deployed or ready, including large air tankers. The RFS will also deploy an extra 200 firefighters to assist in Victoria over the coming days.
Bureau of Meteorology senior forecaster Dean Narramore warned that a cool change overnight had shifted wind directions, meaning fires are now moving towards the east or north-east, potentially putting new communities in harm's way. Emergency Management Victoria has described the fire conditions as 'catastrophic and extreme', marking the gravest threat the state has faced in four years.
