Bonnie Doon and Strathbogie evacuated as Longwood fire spreads; heatwave temperatures bring catastrophic fire warning to most of state; school and homes destroyed in Ruffy
A cool change will occur across the state this afternoon, but it is not expected to reach the Longwood fire areas until the late evening to early morning hours and may not bring much relief.
Victoria is once again expected to experience a day of disaster and extreme bushfire risk conditions. But once this cool change happens, it can make things even more difficult and dangerous for firefighters.
Temperatures are expected to exceed 40 degrees in most of the state. In Longwood, where the wildfire has burned tens of thousands of hectares, the Bureau of Meteorology predicts a maximum temperature of 43 degrees. The temperature is expected to reach 44 degrees in Walwa, where the second large fire broke out of control.
Bureau meteorologist Daniel Sherwin-Simpson said despite the drop in temperature, the cold weather change would not help firefighting efforts.
“This could be a double-edged sword in terms of wind shift. Yes, it will lead to lower temperatures, higher humidity – which reduces fire danger overall – but we could still see gusty winds with that wind shift,” he said.
“In fact, as the cold change progresses, it can increase the area where the fire begins to burn immediately. With the change in direction, it can rapidly increase the fuel load.”
“Cold change is actually probably one of the most dangerous places in terms of fire hazards, especially with today’s active fires, because it’s something that changes so quickly and can catch people off guard. Fires of this significant size spread very, very quickly.”
The change is expected to affect Melbourne between 6pm and 7pm, reaching the north and east of the state later tonight.
Scenes from the Longwood fire.Credit: Jason South
“It will probably pass through the Longwood fire at some point in the evening or early morning on Saturday,” Sherwin-Simpson said.
“Anyone nearby should definitely listen to CFA’s emergency warnings in these areas. They should be aware of other fires in your area.”
