UPDATE: Authorities have issued an urgent warning as bushfire conditions worsen in the Otways and Surf Coast areas today. Jason Heffernan, chief officer of the Country Fire Authority (CFA), confirmed that severe winds and a series of lightning-sparked fires pose an escalating threat to communities along the Great Ocean Road.
As of this morning, damaging winds reaching speeds of 60-80 km/h are expected to persist throughout the day, heightening concerns for local residents. Despite some cooler temperatures offering brief relief, thousands of lightning strikes over the past 24 hours have ignited multiple new fires in the region.
Currently, four fires continue to blaze in the Otways. Firefighters successfully contained two fires overnight; however, strong winds could allow the remaining fires to spread rapidly. Authorities anticipate that additional fires may flare up today due to ongoing lightning activity.
“With the winds that we are expecting to see across the Otways this morning, I’m very concerned for the Surf Coast,” Heffernan stated. “I’m making a very strong recommendation to you to think about what you’re doing today. Make sure you put your bushfire survival plan into action and be ready to take the direction of authorities.”
The devastation from recent fires is staggering, with an estimated 300,000 hectares of land burned statewide. Currently, there are 10 major fire fronts actively burning, along with an additional 20 fires being closely monitored by emergency services.
Authorities have issued 19 emergency warnings and 16 Watch and Act notifications to inform the community of the grave situation. In response to the urgent threat, Premier Jacinta Allan urged all Victorians to heed emergency service advice throughout the day.
“I know how hard it is to leave your home not knowing when and what you will return to, but it has saved lives,” Premier Allan emphasized. “I once again request that Victorians over the course of today continue to stay tuned to the Emergency Victoria app, to local radio — get those multiple sources of information to make sure that you are attuned to local conditions.”
Residents are encouraged to act quickly and remain vigilant as conditions can change rapidly. For real-time updates and safety advice, visit emergency.vic.gov.au. The situation in the Otways is developing, and authorities will continue to monitor the fires closely. Stay safe and informed.
