Warning as Crazy Bushfire Rages Out of Control in Victoria
A bushfire emergency has been declared in Victoria as flames spread rapidly
Victoria, Australia, Bushfire, Grampians National Park, Heatwave
Victoria: A bushfire emergency is underway as a massive fire tears through Grampians National Park. It’s burning out of control, and things are looking pretty serious.
So far, eleven fires have scorched about 17,000 hectares. Residents in places like Loch and St Helier have been told to hunker down because it’s too late to evacuate.
Strong winds are pushing smoke all over western Victoria, and the forecast isn’t looking great with more dry weather expected this weekend.
It’s a real mess out there, and the fire has already caused significant damage. People in several towns are being warned to stay put.
Meanwhile, over in Western Australia, they’re bracing for a heatwave. Temperatures are set to soar above 40°C, making it a scorcher of a weekend.
According to the Bureau of Meteorology, the heat will affect areas from the Pilbara to the South West, with Perth hitting 38°C on Saturday and 41°C on Sunday.
On the flip side, northern Australia and Queensland are expecting wet and stormy weather, with showers and thunderstorms moving through.
Darwin will see a high of 34°C on Saturday, cooling off a bit on Sunday. Coastal areas in Queensland might get more rain if a low-pressure system moves closer.
As for the rest of the country, it’s mostly dry and sunny. Brisbane is looking at highs of 31°C over the weekend.
New South Wales is also set for dry weather, with northern and western areas reaching the low 40s, while coastal regions will be a bit cooler thanks to sea breezes.
Sydney will be sunny at 29°C on Saturday, climbing to 31°C on Sunday. Canberra is expected to be warm too, with highs of 34°C on Saturday.
Victoria might be a bit cooler with some southerly winds, but the north will still see warmer temps and a few showers.
Melbourne is forecasted to hit 21°C on Saturday and 22°C on Sunday. Tasmania will have a dry weekend, but rain could pop up on Sunday.
Hobart is looking at highs of 20°C both days. In South Australia, it’ll be hot and dry, with Adelaide reaching the high 20s.
“Saturday will be a lovely day to be out and about in Adelaide, with 28 degrees and partly cloudy skies,” said Mr. Narramore.