Imminent fire warning following Christmas, Boxing Day

Victoria: Holiday travelers need to be on high alert. Fire conditions are getting serious as we head into Boxing Day. Several states are facing increased bushfire risks.

Right now, bushfires are out of control in parts of Victoria. The Grampians area has seen over 41,000 hectares burned. Other spots like Bullengarook and the Gurdies are also affected.

Things are about to heat up even more. Temperatures are expected to hit 40°C on Boxing Day, and strong, dry winds will make it worse, according to Emergency Management Commissioner Rick Nugent.

He mentioned that the weather will be tough on Thursday and Friday. This means fires could start easily and spread quickly, especially with the wind at play.

In New South Wales, there are some small bush and grass fires, but they’re under control for now. However, the fire risk is set to rise significantly on Boxing Day.

In South Australia, firefighters are dealing with a bushfire in the Onkaparinga Hills. They initially told residents to evacuate but later eased the warning, advising them to keep an eye on conditions.

Adelaide is bracing for a hot Boxing Day, with temperatures peaking at 36°C after a warm Christmas Day. The heat could worsen the bushfire situation in Victoria.

In Western Australia, a bushfire alert was upgraded, warning residents near Northam that it was “too late to leave” as the blaze intensified.

With extreme heat expected on December 26, authorities are urging travelers to reconsider their plans. Nugent stated that most areas in the state will face extreme fire danger.

Country Fire Authority chief Jason Heffernan advised people to avoid traveling through high-risk areas if possible. If you must travel, make sure to have the VicEmergency app handy and stay informed.

To help combat the fires, around 100 firefighters from NSW, the ACT, Queensland, and Tasmania are heading to Victoria. It’s all hands on deck as the situation develops.