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Victoria faces catastrophic fire conditions amid record heatwave
Residents across Victoria have been urged to prepare for potential property destruction or fatalities as extreme heatwave conditions grip much of Australia. Authorities have issued dire warnings, with fire danger ratings reaching "catastrophic" or "extreme" statewide due to soaring temperatures and strong winds.
Record temperatures and fire bans
Temperatures are forecast to peak at 42°C in Melbourne on Friday, while parts of northwest Victoria could reach 45°C. A total fire ban is in effect across Victoria, with South Australia also facing severe fire risks. The Australian Capital Territory, including Canberra, declared its first total fire ban in six years.
Devastation in central Victoria
A bushfire near Longwood has scorched nearly 36,000 hectares, destroying at least 20 homes in the town of Ruffy. Local CFA captain George Noye described the scene as catastrophic, with the town's main street resembling a "bomb site." Schools, shearing sheds, and livestock have been lost, though no fatalities have been reported so far.
"Some properties have lost everything. They've lost their livelihoods, they've lost their shearing sheds, livestock-just absolutely devastating."
George Noye, Ruffy CFA captain
Missing persons and dynamic fire behavior
Three individuals-a child and two adults-remain unaccounted for in the Longwood area after their home was destroyed by fire. Victoria Police Deputy Commissioner Bob Hill stated authorities had warned the family to shelter in place, as evacuation was no longer safe. Search efforts are ongoing, with officials urging caution in assuming the worst.
The Longwood fire remains highly unpredictable, spreading in multiple directions and potentially exceeding initial containment estimates, according to Victoria's state control center.
Statewide alerts and additional blazes
CFA chief officer Jason Heffernan warned that the threat extends beyond active fires, with new blazes emerging across Victoria. A separate fire near Walwa has already burned over 17,000 hectares, while South Australia has battled multiple small fires overnight, with temperatures expected to hit 46°C in some regions.
"That is how severe these conditions are at the moment-not only at the Longwood fire but across the state."
Jason Heffernan, CFA chief officer
Forecast and safety warnings
While Melbourne and surrounding areas may see relief from a cool change in the southwest, Sydney is bracing for temperatures up to 42°C on Saturday before a significant drop to 26°C by Sunday. Authorities continue to urge residents to remain vigilant, monitor emergency alerts, and prepare evacuation plans where necessary.
