Victoria prepares for increased summer fire risk

Victorians are being urged to prepare for an increase in fire activity across large parts of the state this summer.

This is according to the Australian Seasonal Bushfire Outlook for Summer 2024(opens in a new window) released today by AFAC, the National Council for fire and emergency services.

A lack of rainfall across most of western and northeastern Victoria, parts of greater Melbourne, Mornington Peninsula and southwest Gippsland has resulted in more fuels available and an increased chance of fires in these areas.

In addition, a dry 18-months in southwest Victoria has resulted in more fuel within forests, making it easier for fires to start and spread.

The rest of the state is forecast to be at a normal risk, which means fires can still occur and fast running fires are possible on hot, dry and windy days.

In addition, the Bureau of Meteorology is forecasting a higher chance of warmer maximum day and night temperatures over summer.

Victoria’s emergency services remain well prepared for the potential of fires, with at least 54 dedicated aircraft positioned across the state as part of the core fleet for the higher risk weather season. This includes a mix of water bombing, air supervision and air intelligence gathering aircraft, which can be moved quickly, according to risk.

Returning this year are two Large Air Tankers, which can operate from smaller regional airports as they require less room for take-off and landing, making them more agile to move around the state. Two Aircranes are also contracted to join the fleet once their service period in North America concludes.

The aerial firefighting fleet will support the efforts of thousands of dedicated emergency services personnel from across CFA, Forest Fire Management Victoria, Fire Rescue Victoria, VICSES and other agencies and a firefighting fleet of trucks, heavy machinery and plant equipment.

Preparedness is a shared responsibility and it’s important for communities to take action and understand their local risks.

Having a fire plan with your family and reducing the vegetation around your home by mowing lawns and clearing gutters are some of the most important things you can do to prepare for the higher risk weather season.

Keep up to date with the Fire Danger Ratings and warnings on the VicEmergency app and VicEmergency website. Make a fire plan at fireplanner.vic.gov.au.

The Australian Seasonal Bushfire Outlook for Summer is developed by the Australasian Fire and Emergency Service Authorities Council (AFAC) and supported by the Bureau of Meteorology, along with state and territory fire and land managers. The Outlook gives a national picture of the likelihood of fires over the summer months.

Quotes attributable to Fire Rescue Commissioner, Gavin Freeman

“Fire Rescue Victoria stands ready to support our colleagues across the emergency services sector.

“Victorians, regardless of where they live, can rely on interagency cooperation to deliver the best fire and emergency service response.

“I urge anyone living in or visiting regional and remote areas to regularly monitor weather conditions and have a plan for high-risk days."