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People in Victoria’s east are being told to leave after an out-of-control bushfire more than tripled in size.
The fast-moving blaze at Briagolong in the Gippsland region covered 5000 hectares yesterday, but strong winds have fanned the flames, and the fire was stretching across about 17,000 hectares by this morning.
Emergency warnings have been issued for the surrounding areas, and people in neighbouring Stockdale and Stratford have been told to leave before conditions become too dangerous.
Emergency services respond to fires across parts of Victoria.
Those in Briagolong have been urged to take shelter as it’s too late to leave.
More than 650 firefighters are on the ground, but wind gusts up to 80km/h are making firefighting efforts more difficult.
“We’re experiencing spot fires well ahead of the main fire front,” Country Fire Authority chief Jason Heffernan told ABC TV.
“Firefighters are doing their best to try and contain that fire, but it is very challenging.”
Another out-of-control fire, which started further south near Lakeside Track within the Gippsland Coastal park, is also causing concern.
The fire is moving south-east after crossing the Longford-Loch Sport Road, and people in Seacombe and nearby areas have been warned to take shelter.
Premier Jacinta Allan said a relief centre had been set up for affected residents at Sale, about 30 kilometres south of the bushfire.
“The fire season has come, and it’s come early.”