Severe bushfires in Victoria have destroyed homes and even a fire truck, ignited by extreme heat and dry lightning that sparked over 100 fires across the region. In Nangiloc, near Mildura, two houses were lost as intense weather conditions led to 114 outbreaks statewide. During efforts to combat a blaze in Little Desert National Park, three firefighters narrowly escaped after their vehicle was engulfed in flames. Currently, more than 600 firefighters are responding to two urgent fires, with a high fire risk persisting across southern areas.
Authorities have urged residents near the Grampians National Park to evacuate, warning that conditions could worsen rapidly and emergency assistance might be compromised. Smoke and ash from the fires have raised air quality concerns across affected regions.
Lightning strikes, which numbered around 50,000, also sparked new fires in the Great Otways National Park, complicating firefighting efforts in remote terrains.
As Victoria braces for continued extreme heat, with temperatures soaring into the 40s, the fire danger remains critical. Relief is predicted for Melbourne as a cool change is expected by the afternoon, while the northern regions may not see respite until later in the week. More storms could also pose additional risks for fire danger as conditions evolve.