Fresh Evacuation Warnings as Bushfire Threatens Australian Towns

Date:

Updated: [falahcoin_post_modified_date]

SYDNEY, Feb 23 — Fresh evacuation warnings were issued today for dozens of rural Australian towns as around 1,000 firefighters battled a bushfire in Victoria state which has destroyed properties, killed livestock and is threatening to spread through towns.

More than 2,000 people on Thursday fled from towns in Victoria’s west after emergency evacuation orders were issued to leave while it was still safe and head east to the nearby regional hub of Ballarat, 95km west of Melbourne.

Firefighters, supported by more than 50 aircraft, battled to contain the massive blaze on Friday. Roughly 110 square kms have been burnt, authorities said.

We are sadly hearing reports of property loss that are starting to come through, Victoria state Premier Jacinta Allan said during a press briefing.

Given the active nature of the fire and the difficult terrain in the area, it is going to take some time to assess the full extent of the damage.

At least two schools have been closed and students in four have been relocated to other schools, while around 5,000 properties are without power across Victoria.

Stronger-than-expected winds are spreading fires faster and closer to towns as emergency crews urged residents to take shelter indoors if unable to leave.

A cold front off Australia’s south coast moved overnight to the regions in the east battling bushfires, pushing temperatures down but strong winds continued to fan the wildfires.

Unfortunately, those winds did not drop to where we thought they were going to be and that is what led the fire to accelerate where it did, said Jason Heffernan, chief officer of Victoria state fire department.

Emergency crews would begin taking stock of damages from Friday though early reports indicate significant losses of sheds and livestock as the fire spreads through several farms, Heffernan said. One home has been confirmed lost.

[single_post_faqs]
Noah Williams
Noah Williams
Noah Williams, the Australia correspondent and news manager at The Reportify. Trust his accurate and insightful coverage of breaking news, interviews, and analysis. Gain a deeper understanding of Australia's politics, culture, and social issues through his captivating writing. Count on Noah for reliable and impactful news exclusively at The Reportify. He can be reached at noah@thereportify.com for any inquiries or further information.

Share post:

Subscribe

Popular

More like this
Related

Revolutionary Small Business Exchange Network Connects Sellers and Buyers

Revolutionary SBEN connects small business sellers and buyers, transforming the way businesses are bought and sold in the U.S.

District 1 Commissioner Race Results Delayed by Recounts & Ballot Reviews, US

District 1 Commissioner Race in Orange County faces delays with recounts and ballot reviews. Find out who will come out on top in this close election.

Fed Minutes Hint at Potential Rate Cut in September amid Economic Uncertainty, US

Federal Reserve minutes suggest potential rate cut in September amid economic uncertainty. Find out more about the upcoming policy decisions.

Baltimore Orioles Host First-Ever ‘Faith Night’ with Players Sharing Testimonies, US

Experience the powerful testimonies of Baltimore Orioles players on their first-ever 'Faith Night.' Hear how their faith impacts their lives on and off the field.