Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Saturday, 9.29am:
The Country Fire Authority has issued a final message for the Strathallan fire.
The message advises the communities of Fairy Dell, Nanneella, Rochester, Strathallan smoke might be visible from nearby roads and communities.
There is no immediate threat to the community and no action is required.
Investigations into the cause of the fire are ongoing, but police yesterday said it was not believed to be suspicious.
Firefighters have urged landowners to clean up their properties, expressing frustration that safety messages did not sink in before more than 150 fires erupted across the state on Thursday.
Power and water suppliers have defended how their respective systems coped, despite widespread power outages and community advice about pressures on the Coliban Water network.
All fire towers were manned on Thursday, but Forest Fire Management Victoria is waiting longer to man fire towers in the Bendigo region than everywhere else in the state.
Update, 9.45am
A handful of customers remain without power in Bendigo following Thursday's wild conditions.
About five customers in the Bendigo area are still affected, while 465 properties in Kyneton are without power.
A Powercor spokesperson said the company was on Friday morning working to restore power to be about 1000 customers across the state.
"This was one of the largest events we've experienced on the Powercor network and at peak there were more than 80,000 homes and businesses off supply," the spokesperson said.
"Extra crews worked throughout the night and are on the ground today repairing damaged power lines and other assets.
"Thank you to all affected customers for their understanding and patience as our crews worked to restore power safely and as quickly as possible.
"The volume of faults from this extreme weather has meant restoration times are longer than usual for some customers and we want to assure customers we are doing everything possible to get power back on."
Update, 8.40am
A 420-hectare fire north of Rochester has been deemed not suspicious.
Emergency Management Commissioner Andrew Crisp on Thursday singled out the Strathallan fire as the most concerning for emergency services.
A dairy and hundreds of cattle were affected by the fire on Burgoine Road. A number of sleepers across the rail line connecting Bendigo and Echuca were also damaged in the blaze.
A Victoria Police spokesperson said the fire, which was controlled on Thursday evening, was still being investigated.
"Investigations into the exact cause of the fire are ongoing, but it is not believed to be suspicious," a police spokesperson said.
Update, Friday 8am
Central Victorian crews are mopping on Friday after Code Red conditions led to multiple fires across the region.
The Country Fire Authority said the fires were under control and there was no threat to residents.
But a CFA spokesperson said smoke could still be visible from neighbouring towns and people should continue to monitor conditions.
The State Emergency Service was called out to 244 incidents in the north west region in the past 24 hours.
Bendigo was the hardest hit, with about 60 call outs, while there were 57 call outs in Castlemaine.
With cooler conditions on Friday, the CFA has downgraded the fire danger ratings in the state.
Northern central, northern country and Mallee regions still have a high fire danger rating.
A summary
Firefighters have braved some of the worst fire conditions in almost a decade, with blazes including a 420-hectare fire north of Rochester.
Fierce winds not only brought trees, buildings and power lines down across the region, but caused havoc for those on the fire ground.
This afternoon, Emergency Management Commissioner Andrew Crisp singled out the Strathallan fire as that concerning emergency services most, out of more than 60 burning across the state.
A dairy and hundreds of cattle were affected by the fire on Burgoine Road.
Firefighters were still assessing the damage in the evening.
Ten tankers were tasked to patrol the fire overnight.
In addition to the dairy, the Strathallan fire damaged a number of sleepers across the rail line connecting Bendigo and Echuca.
Firefighters expected train services on Friday would be affected.
The cause of the Strathallan fire, and a number of other major fires within the region, are under investigation.
Investigators were tasked to an 86-hectare fire at Natte Yallock, north-west of Maryborough, and an 11-hectare fire at Buckrabanyule, east of Charlton.
Lightning sparked a 23-hectare blaze at Hunter, north-west of Elmore.
The fire was under control by dusk.
"The firefighters on the ground need to be commended for the work they did," incident controller Les Vearing said.
Thousands of homes and businesses were without power for parts of the day, and Coliban Water advised customers to put aside a supply of drinking water as the water network came under pressure.
The temperature in Bendigo neared 41 degrees at 1.30pm, making it the city's hottest November day since records started in 1862.
With the change in weather came a change in the colour of the skies, which glowed pink with dust.
Victoria's chief health officer issued an advice message for air quality.
Emergency Management Commissioner Andrew Crisp said there was only a slight increase in workload around hospitals and paramedics statewide - nothing that he said could be directly linked to thunderstorm asthma.
Some schools were closed and public transport was affected by the Code Red conditions.
A number of businesses also altered their services, with Victoria Legal Aid duty lawyers and outreach staff unavailable in a number of locations, including Bendigo and Echuca.
A blackout meant Bendigo's Capital Theatre was closed.
Haven; Home, Safe cancelled its annual stakeholders meeting, and an entry to Bendigo Marketplace was shut in the afternoon after a sign fell.
Strong winds whipped through the region and felled a number of trees, including one that fell on a house in Golden Square.
Another tree fell on three cars and a light pole in the Coles car park on McIvor Road in East Bendigo.
The Calder Highway at Big Hill was reduced to one lane after a tree fell on a car.
The Bendigo Community Health Services Eaglehawk site also took a hit from a tree.
Bendigo Hospital staffers tried to put out a fire in a garden bed in front of the emergency department with extinguishers.
Bendigo Fire Brigade senior station officer Dale Stemmer said it was more than likely a dropped cigarette butt that started the fire.
Mr Crisp said today's conditions provided a very good indication of what the summer ahead might have in store.
"We can't control the weather, but we can control how well prepared we are," he said.
"It's not too late - we've got a long way to go."
8.30pm
A dairy and hundreds of cattle have been affected by a 420-hectare fire north of Rochester.
Incident controller Les Vearing said the extent of the fire damage to both the dairy and the cattle had yet to be determined.
He said a machinery shed on the property, which contained machinery, had also been affected.
A Watch and Act message issued for the Burgoin Road fire has been downgraded to an Advice message.
The fire has been contained, but Mr Vearing said quite a lot of work remained to be done.
"There is still quite a bit of work to do along the Campaspe River," he said.
He said there were potentially a lot of hazardous trees along the river that would need to be looked at tomorrow and treated.
"We'll also need to do cultural heritage assessments in there, as well," Mr Vearing said.
He said 10 tankers would be working on the fire overnight, with the hazardous tree assessors and cultural heritage assessor to turn out in the morning.
"There will be quite a lot of smoke coming out of that fire overnight and into tomorrow," Mr Vearing said.
He said there was little risk of the fire escaping containment overnight, with winds dropping off and the weather cooling down.
In addition to the dairy, the Strathallan fire damage a number of sleepers along the railway line between Bendigo and Echuca.
Mr Vearing said the damage would have to be assessed to determine when the line could re-open.
"It won't be tonight or probably tomorrow," he said.
The causes of the Strathallan fire, and a number of other major fires within the region, are under investigation.
Investigators were tasked to an 86-hectare fire at Natte Yallock, north-west of Maryborough, and an 11-hectare fire at Buckrabanyule, east of Charlton.
Lightning sparked a 23-hectare blaze at Hunter, north-west of Elmore.
The fire is under control, with an Advice message remaining.
No homes were lost in any of the major fires.
"The firefighters on the ground need to be commended for the work they did," Mr Vearing said.
He said the conditions were 'horrible': "It was very, very hot and very windy and the visibility was so poor, you couldn't see very far."
The job firefighters on the ground did to contain multiple fires to the size they were and in the conditions was an unbelievable effort, Mr Vearing said.
"We've had so many fires going that our resources were really stretched," he said.
He said tomorrow's expected mild temperatures would give firefighters a chance to make sure everything was blacked out going into the weekend.
8.10pm
After the heat from earlier, today has cooled off a lot!
At 8pm, Bendigo's temperature was a balmy 19.3 degrees.
At its peak, the city measured 40.9 degrees, at 1.30pm.
Tomorrow's forecast is sunny with a top of 27.
7.45pm
Check out some of the photos in the comments - wow!
7pm
Coliban Water has reiterated calls for customers to put aside a supply of drinking water, in case power or backup power can't be restored before clear water storages reach critical levels.
A spokesperson said power outages could affect Coliban's water treatment plants and supply network.
"We have treated water in our clear water storages and can continue to supply customers during an outage," they said.
They attributed high demand for water to today's extreme hot weather.
"Our peak demand times for water are between 6pm and 10pm. We ask customers to be mindful of their water use during this time in periods of extreme hot weather and keep to good water conservation practices," the spokesperson said.
"Changing garden watering times to the morning before 10am will reduce demand during our peak time."
The spokesperson's comments come after the water corporation advised customers via social media to minimise non-essential water use, particularly in Heathcote, Tooborac and Trentham.
"We are experiencing high demand and power outages which is putting pressure on our water network across our region," the Tweet said.
"We suggest customers put a supply of drinking water aside."
6.40pm
More than 12,000 Bendigo region homes are still without power.
Here's the latest update from Powercor:
"Powercor crews are continuing to restore power to homes and businesses across western Victoria following today's extreme weather.
Severe winds can bring down trees and vegetation onto powerlines and affect power to customers.
On Total Fire Ban days and Code Red days, the safety devices on our network are placed on more sensitive settings. This means when vegetation or other objects come in contact with our lines on these days, power will be cut to reduce the risk of bushfires. Our crews then need to conduct full patrols of the affected lines before safely restoring supply.
Currently, we are responding to more than 490 separate faults in the Powercor network and crews are working to get power back on to more than 27,030 customers. At peak, there were more than 80,000 customers off supply.
The hardest hit areas are:
Bendigo - 12,095 customers;
Geelong - 3399 customers;
Ballarat - 5345 customers; and
Kyneton - 4600 customers.
Extra crews are on board responding to faults.
While the focus is on getting people restored as safely and quickly as possible, given the volume of fault jobs there will be some customers who will be off supply overnight and into tomorrow.
We will continue keeping customers updated on estimated restoration times via our website and SMS.
Thank you to all customers for their understanding and patience during these extended outages. We appreciate how difficult it is to be without electricity and want to assure people that we are doing everything possible to get power on following this extreme weather event.
We want to remind people that if they do see a fallen powerline, they should stay well clear of it and report it immediately to us on 13 24 12."
6pm
A family in Castlemaine was lucky to escape unharmed after a tree fell on their property.
The tree narrowly missed the family's car.
It damaged only the property's fence.
5.35pm
5pm
Fire crews are mopping up after a blaze in Elmore paddocks - watch here:
4.36pm
The Bendigo marketplace entry off Garsed Street is shut after a part of the sign became dislodged and fell.
Windy weather believed to be the cause.
4.31pm
4.27pm
A severe thunderstorms warning for damaging winds in central and Mallee districts has been cancelled.
However, a separate severe weather warning for damaging winds, issued at 11am, is still current.
The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a severe thunderstorm warning for damaging winds, for parts of the east Gippsland, northern country, north-central and north-east forecast districts, along with west and south Gippsland areas.
4.17pm
Adrian Doling-Hill has shared photos of the multiple powerpoles broken and a house without its roof in Mackenzie Street in Golden Square.
The road is closed between Lily and Thistle streets.
Mr Doling-Hill said there were no injuries.
The Country Fire Authority is on scene.
See more in the gallery above.
3.45pm
Emergency Management Commissioner Andrew Crisp has cited the fire at Strathallan as the one of most concern to firefighters.
Mr Crisp said during an afternoon briefing a hay shed had been lost, and possibly another structure.
Six families had relocated.
Police are investigating the cause of the fire, which could comprise five different fires.
Mr Crisp said dry lightning was starting further fires, and it would be quite some time until the change made its way through the state.
He said people still needed to be vigilant, not only about fires but about the risk of thunderstorm asthma.
A slight increase in workloads for hospitals and paramedics had been reported, but Mr Crisp said it was nothing that could be directly linked to thunderstorm asthma.
There have been more than 60 fires, statewide.
More than 2000 firefighters and 300 trucks are responding.
The region's incident control centre and emergency services are monitoring the threat of lightning as storm activity starts to move through central Victoria.
Deputy incident controller Mark Gilmore said the team would keep an eye on lightning strikes between now and sunset, when conditions were expected to settle.
There have been a number of fires throughout the region today, including two near Rochester that remain out of control.
But Mr Gilmore said firefighters were starting to establish containment lines around the blazes, which measure 50 hectares and 100 hectares in size.
Earlier in the day, firefighters were sent to Naneella Primary School to ensure the safety of students and staff, although the fire was a little way off.
An advice message is in place for a fire on Lockington Road at Hunter, near Elmore.
Mr Gilmore said firefighters and aircraft had been dispatched to the scene.
There has also been a 50-hectare fire at Natte Yallock and a five-hectare blaze near Talbot.
In the Bendigo area, the State Emergency Service has received more than 50 calls for trees down.
Mr Gilmore said emergency services were keeping up with the demand.
Rehabilitation units have been sent out to firefighters to keep them hydrated and well in the hot conditions.
Mr Gilmore urged residents of the region to remain alert, monitor emergency information, and be ready to act if needed.
3.29pm
The Calder Highway at Big Hill was reduced to one lane after a tree fell on a car.
Ambulance crews treated one person at the scene.
There were no serious injuries, but they were taken to Bendigo hospital in a stable condition.
3.20pm
Firefighters patrol area where fire jumped a road near Rochester - watch here:
3.09pm
An update from Powercor:
"Extreme winds are impacting power to homes and businesses across parts of the Powercor network.
Winds can bring down trees and other vegetation on powerlines and affect power to customers.
We are responding to reports of more than 37 fallen powerlines and more than 140 separate faults in the western part of Victoria.
Crews are working to restore power to more than 75,500 customers. The hardest hit areas are in the Geelong, Bendigo and Ballarat regions.
We are continuing to monitor weather conditions and have extra crews on board to respond to faults.
Due to the number of faults, extreme weather conditions and the need to be able to restore power safely, restoration times may be longer than usual.
We will keep customers updated on estimated restoration times via our website and SMS.
We understand how difficult it is to be without electricity, particularly in these conditions, and our crews are on the ground working to get power back on safely and quickly.
If people do see a fallen powerline, they should stay well clear of it and report it immediately to us on 13 24 12."
3.07pm
Haven; Home, Safe has cancelled its annual stakeholders meeting tonight, because of the extreme weather.
The organisation said it would still capture the presentation of special guest Yumi Stynes and post it on its Facebook page tomorrow.
It will also distribute links to the annual report at this time.
3.06pm
3pm
Calder Highway is down to one lane at Big Hill.
Police and firefighters are on scene.
Traffic lights are out throughout Kangaroo Flat.
2.51pm
Back to the Coles car park...
Colin and Andrea had just pulled into the parking space and were still in the car when a huge gust of wind blew down a gum tree onto their vehicle.
The impact made "quite a bang" Colin said, and while unfortunate, they were glad to be alive.
"Getting out was a problem," Colin said with a laugh.
2.48pm
A roof has come off a house at Mackenzie Street, hitting a power pole.
Country Fire Authority has blocked Mackenzie Street between Thistle and Ophir streets.
There are powerlines down throughout Golden Square.
There are multiple traffic lights out across the city, including near Lake Weeroona.
2.38pm
STRATHALLAN FIRE - EMERGENCY WARNING
This emergency warning is being issued for Bonn, Fairy Dell, Nanneella, Rochester, Strathallan and Timmering.
There is a grassfire at Strathallan that is not yet under control.
The grassfire is travelling in a south-easterly direction towards Webb Road, east of Rochester.
You are in danger, act now to protect yourself. It is too late to leave. The safest option is to take shelter indoors immediately.
What you should do
- Quickly move indoors
- Bring your pets indoors
- Close all exterior doors, windows and vents
- Turn off cooling systems
You must take shelter before the fire arrives. The extreme heat is likely to kill you well before the flames reach you.
Shelter in a room that has two exits including one directly to the outside. It is important to be able to see outside so you know what is happening with the fire.
If your home catches on fire and the conditions inside become unbearable, you need to get out and go to an area that has already been burnt. READ MORE HERE.
2.35pm
A tree has fallen on three cars in the Coles car park on McIvor Road, East Bendigo.
No one is trapped or injured.
A light pole was taken out in the car park by the tree.
Traffic is not affected.
2.16pm
The chief health officer has issued an advice message for air quality, for north-central, central and northern country weather districts.
People might experience asthma symptoms or difficulty breathing due to the combination of thunderstorm activity and high grass pollen levels.
People who have a history of asthma or hay fever, or who are experiencing wheezing, breathlessness, a feeling of tightness in the chest or a persistent cough, should have reliever medication with them at all times today.
Avoid the wind gusts before the storm. Go inside and close windows and doors before and during the storm.
People who are experiencing any of the above symptoms might be having an asthma attack.
An asthma attack is serious and can be life-threatening.
If you develop asthma symptoms, follow your asthma action plan, or if you don't have a plan, follow the 4 steps of asthma first aid.
Be aware of an increased chance of having an asthma attack or breathing difficulties. Call triple zero (000) immediately if someone is not breathing, if their asthma suddenly becomes worse or is not improving, or if the person is having an asthma attack and a reliever is not available.
What you should do:
- If you have asthma carry a reliever puffer (usually blue) on you at all times today.
- If you have hay fever, review the asthma first aid steps and have a reliever puffer suitably available.
- If using air conditioning, turn it onto recirculate.
If you are experiencing asthma symptoms for the first time:
- Don't ignore them, see your doctor to make a diagnosis and if severe call Triple Zero (000).
- If required use asthma first aid. Remember that asthma relievers are available from pharmacies without a prescription.
Make sure you follow up with your doctor.
Call Nurse on Call on 1300 60 60 24 or see your doctor if you require medical advice.
The next update is expected by 9.20pm or as the situation changes.
2.13pm
This Powercor map is very telling...
Earlier, Powercor released a statement that said more than 17,000 properties in the Bendigo region had been affected by blackouts.
Here's a look at it more closely:
2.05pm
Emergency services are heading out to a bushfire on the Calder Freeway at Elphinstone.
We'll keep you updated as we learn more.
2.04pm
A quick reminder to stay safe, stay hydrated and keep an eye on warnings...
2.02pm
The temperature has now reached 40.9.
Again, this is our hottest November day since records began in 1862.
1.57pm
The emergency warning for Clunes, Dunach, Evansford, Glengower, Mount Cameron, Mount Glasgow, Red Lion and Stony Creek has been downgraded to a watch and act. More info here.
1.46pm
More than 17,000 people across the Bendigo region are without power.
Powercor has released a statement:
"Extreme winds are impacting power to homes and businesses across parts of the Powercor network.
Winds can bring down trees and other vegetation on powerlines and affect power to customers.
We are responding to reports of more than 18 fallen powerlines and more than 130 separate faults in the western part of Victoria.
Crews are working to restore power to more than 31,800 customers. The hardest hit areas are in the Bendigo region with more than 17,000 customers without supply.
We are continuing to monitor weather conditions and have extra crews on board to respond to faults.
Due to the number of faults, extreme weather conditions and the need to be able to restore power safely, restoration times may be longer than usual.
We will keep customers updated on estimated restoration times via our website and SMS.
We understand how difficult it is to be without electricity, particularly in these conditions, and our crews are on the ground working to get power back on safely and quickly.
If people do see a fallen powerline, they should stay well clear of it and report it immediately to us on 13 24 12."
1.30pm
The cool wind change is moving across Victoria, making for some unstable conditions.
A warning has been issued for possible severe thunderstorms.
Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce damaging winds in the warning area over the next several hours. Locations which may be affected include Bendigo, Seymour, Maryborough, Ballarat, Geelong and Melbourne.
Note a more broad severe weather warning is current for damaging winds.
The State Emergency Service advises that people should:
- Check that loose items such as outdoor settings, umbrellas and trampolines are safely secured and move vehicles under cover or away from trees.
- Stay indoors and away from windows.
- If outdoors, move to a safe place indoors. Stay away from trees, drains, gutters, creeks and waterways.
- If driving conditions are dangerous, safely pull over away from trees, drains, low-lying areas and floodwater. Avoid travel if possible.
- Stay safe by avoiding dangerous hazards, such as floodwater, mud, debris, damaged roads and fallen trees.
- Stay away from fallen powerlines always assume they are live.
- Stay informed monitor weather warnings, forecasts and river levels at the Bureau of Meteorology website, and warnings through VicEmergency.
1.18pm
A watch and act issued for Buckrabanyule, Barrakee, Woosang and Wychitella.
There is a grassfire at Buckrabanyule that is not yet under control.
This grassfire is travelling in a southerly direction towards Wychitella Nature Reserve.
Staying close to a building you can shelter in is the safest option as conditions can change suddenly.
Continue to stay informed and monitor conditions.
1.13pm
EMERGENCY WARNING
This emergency warning is being issued for Bonn, Fairy Dell, Nanneella, Rochester, Strathallan, Timmering.
There is a grassfire at Strathallan that is not yet under control.
The grassfire is travelling in a south-easterly direction towards Webb Road, east of Rochester.
You are in danger, act now to protect yourself. It is too late to leave. The safest option is to take shelter indoors immediately.
What you should do
- Quickly move indoors
- Bring your pets indoors
- Close all exterior doors, windows and vents
- Turn off cooling systems
You must take shelter before the fire arrives. The extreme heat is likely to kill you well before the flames reach you.
Shelter in a room that has two exits including one directly to the outside. It is important to be able to see outside so you know what is happening with the fire.
If your home catches on fire and the conditions inside become unbearable, you need to get out and go to an area that has already been burnt.
If you cannot get indoors, last resort options include:
- Shelter in the middle of a large open area like a ploughed paddock, football oval or sporting reserve
- Get into a large body of water like a dam, lake, river, the ocean or in-ground pool
- Try to protect yourself from the fire's heat
In the car:
- If you are travelling, do not enter the area. Turn around and drive to safety
- If you are currently driving slow down and turn on your headlights; smoke will make it difficult to see
If caught in fire:
- Park behind a solid structure to block the fire's heat or pull over to cleared area
- Try to position the car towards the approaching fire
- Turn on your hazard lights and headlights
- Close all windows
- Turn off the air-conditioning and shut all the air vents
- Turn your car engine off
- Get down as low as possible below window level and cover up with a woollen blanket
Impacts in your area:
- Grassfires can generate extreme heat. Heat will kill you before the flames reach you.
This message was issued by Country Fire Authority.
The next update is expected by 7.20pm or as the situation changes.
If you can smell smoke, please note:
- Smoke can affect people's health
- People with heart or lung conditions (including asthma), children, pregnant women and older people are more sensitive to the effects of breathing in smoke
- People with existing heart or lung conditions (including asthma) should follow the treatment plan advised by the doctor
Health information:
- If you need medical advice for burns or exposure to smoke, seek medical advice or call Nurse on Call on 1300 606 024
- Anyone experiencing wheezing, chest tightness and difficulty breathing should call Triple Zero (000)
- If you cannot smell smoke you are not likely to be exposed to smoke and it will therefore not affect you
Use multiple sources to stay informed:
- www.emergency.vic.gov.au
- VicEmergency Hotline - freecall 1800 226 226
- VicEmergency app
- Facebook or Twitter (#vicfires)
- Tune in to ABC Local Radio, commercial and designated community radio stations, or Sky News TV
Accessibility:
- The following services can help you, or someone you know, access information during an emergency
- To access this information in other languages call the Translating and Interpreting Service on 131 450 (freecall) and ask them to call VicEmergency Hotline
- If you are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech/communication impairment contact National Relay Service on 1800 555 677 and ask them to call the VicEmergency Hotline
1pm
It's hot out there - our hottest November day on record.
The Bureau of Meteorology measured the temperature at 40.7 degrees at 12.30pm.
Records show the previous hottest November day was in 1997, when it reached 40.3 degrees.
12.59pm
The blackouts are affecting a lot of places...
12.47pm
Bendigo State Emergency Service attended a tree that had fallen on a house in Marble Street, West Bendigo.
Bendigo SES deputy controller Lachie Worn said there was no significant damage to the house.
"At this incident we've had a 20-foot tree come down on a house," Mr Worn said.
"There doesn't appear to be significant damage, but we've just finished clearing the tree and we will make an assessment."
Mr Worn had a broader message for the community.
"There are a lot of high winds today and it's a code red fire danger period.
"Drive to the conditions, if you see trees down or debris on the road, slow down."
"Because it's hot, check on your neighbours, friends and stay hydrated.
"We all need to look after each other on these extreme weather days."
12.45pm
Ten thousand firefighters are on alert across Victoria's north-west, with strike teams on a "hair trigger" to respond to any blazes that break out.
Grass fires will "run hard" today Epsom incident controller Mark Gilmore said.
"And forest fires will be a struggle to stop. That's significant," he said. READ MORE HERE.
12.43pm
A watch and act has been issued for Nanneella and Strathallan.
There is a grassfire at Odea Road, Strathallan, that is not yet under control. The fire is travelling in a south-easterly direction towards Echuca-Nanneella Road and Power Road.
Staying close to a building can shelter in is the safest option as conditions can change suddenly.
Continue to stay informed and monitor conditions.
What you should do:
- Monitor changes to the situation. Increased wind speed, change in wind direction, smoke or poor visibility can indicate the situation is changing
- If you are away from home, do not return
- If you're in a car and become caught in a grassfire, don't get out and run
If the situation changes you will need to leave quickly. Plan to:
- Take your pets, medications, mobile phone and charger
- Travel to the home of family or friends that are away from the warning area
Emergency services might not be able to help if people decide to stay.
Grassfires can generate extreme heat and kill before the flames reach you.
12.35pm
Drought Street has now been opened to traffic, after a Lucan Street fire it was been declared safe.
The fire was in a garden bed in front of the Bendigo hospital emergency department.
Bendigo senior station officer Dale Stemmer said it was more than likely a dropped cigarette butt that started the fire.
With today's high, dry winds, he said, it spread quite quickly in the mulch of the garden bed.
"Days like today, we've got a Code Red, catastrophic fire danger, and people are dropping cigarette butts," he said.
"People need to exercise extreme caution on these days."
He praised hospital staff for their quick response to the fire in attempting to put it out with extinguishers.
12.31pm
Drought Street is blocked to traffic, due to a fire in Lucan Street, Bendigo.
12.29pm
More than 11,000 properties are now without power across the Bendigo region.
There are two separate faults causing the blackout.
One has affected 4649 properties.
Powercor crews are trying to locate a second fault affecting 6000 people.
A spokeswoman reminded people to stay away from downed powerlines if they came across them and to call 13 24 12 to report any.
12.20pm
EMERGENCY WARNING
An emergency warning has been issued for Clunes, Dunach, Evansford, Glengower, Mount Cameron, Mount Glasgow, Red Lion, Stony Creek.
There is a grassfire at Firmans Road, Mount Glasgow, that is out of control. The fire is travelling in a southerly direction towards Dunac.
This emergency marning replaces the watch and act.
The CFA warns people are in danger and urges them to act now to protect themselves.
It is too late to leave.
The safest option is to take shelter indoors immediately.
Do not get in the car and drive. It is safer to stay where you are.
What you should do:
- Quickly move indoors
- Bring your pets indoors
- Close all exterior doors, windows and vents
- Turn off cooling systems
You must take shelter before the fire arrives. The extreme heat is likely to kill you well before the flames reach you.
Shelter in a room that has two exits including one directly to the outside. It is important to be able to see outside so you know what is happening with the fire.
If your home catches on fire and the conditions inside become unbearable, you need to get out and go to an area that has already been burnt.
If you cannot get indoors, last resort options include:
Shelter in the middle of a large open area like a ploughed paddock, football oval or sporting reserve.
Get into a large body of water like a dam, lake, river, the ocean or in-ground pool.
Try to protect yourself from the fire's heat.
In the car:
- If you are travelling, do not enter the area. Turn around and drive to safety.
- If you are currently driving slow down and turn on your headlights; smoke will make it difficult to see.
If caught in fire:
- Park behind a solid structure to block the fire's heat or pull over to cleared area
- Try to position the car towards the approaching fire
- Turn on your hazard lights and headlights
- Close all windows
- Turn off the air-conditioning and shut all the air vents
- Turn your car engine off
- Get down as low as possible below window level and cover up with a woollen blanket
Grassfires can start and spread quickly and are extremely dangerous. Spot fires and ember attacks are starting up to 1km ahead of the main fire
Check the VicTraffic website (traffic.vicroads.vic.gov.au/) or call 13 11 70 for road closures.
You may be able to use a mobile phone to call Triple Zero (000) and to access information on the internet. You can listen to warning information on a battery-operated radio.
If you can smell smoke, please note:
- Smoke can affect people's health
- People with heart or lung conditions (including asthma), children, pregnant women and older people are more sensitive to the effects of breathing in smoke
- People with existing heart or lung conditions (including asthma) should follow the treatment plan advised by the doctor
Health information:
- If you need medical advice for burns or exposure to smoke, seek medical advice or call Nurse on Call on 1300 606 024.
- Anyone experiencing wheezing, chest tightness and difficulty breathing should call Triple Zero (000).
- If you cannot smell smoke you are not likely to be exposed to smoke and it will therefore not affect you.
Use multiple sources to stay informed:
- www.emergency.vic.gov.au
- VicEmergency Hotline - freecall 1800 226 226
- VicEmergency app
- Facebook or Twitter (#vicfires)
- Tune in to ABC Local Radio, commercial and designated community radio stations, or Sky News TV
Accessibility:
- The following services can help you, or someone you know, access information during an emergency.
- To access this information in other languages call the Translating and Interpreting Service on 131 450 (freecall) and ask them to call VicEmergency Hotline.
- If you are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech/communication impairment contact National Relay Service on 1800 555 677 and ask them to call the VicEmergency Hotline.
12.18pm
The Country Fire Authority has issued an advice message for Patho.
There is a building fire at Mcnaught Road.
There is currently no threat to the community, but people should continue to stay informed and monitor conditions.
The authority urged people to keep the roads clear so emergency services can respond.
Firefighters are on scene.
Emergency services will remain in the area.
Meanwhile, Harness Racing Victoria has cancelled Echuca's harness meeting tonight because of extreme weather and fire danger.
"Safety for all participants, human and equine, and staff is our top priority. Based on advice from the CFA and the weather conditions we have cancelled the Echuca meeting," chief executive Dayle Brown said.
The organisation has been in communication with the Victorian Trainers and Drivers Association throughout the morning in relation to tonight's cancellation.
HRV's racing department is exploring the possibility of scheduling an additional Echuca meeting later in the season.
12.13pm
More than 4600 homes are without power because of a fault in Allingham Street, Golden Square.
More than 1600 Powercor customers are affected in Golden Square, along with 2801 in Kangaroo Flat, 121 in Marong, 57 in Lockwood, 47 in Maiden Gully, 17 in Leichardt, and two in Myers Flat.
A further 950 properties are without power because of a fault in Bendigo-Pyramid Hill, Pyramid Hill.
Pyramid Hill itself is the worst affected, with 416 houses in blackout.
A further 129 properties in Calivil are also affected.
In Spring Gully, 14 customers do not have power because of a fault in Autumn Gully Road.
12.03pm
A bushfire at Woodend is under control, but an advice message remains.
The massage is for Ashbourne, Bullengarook, Bullengarook East, Gisborne, Lerderderg, Macedon, Mount Macedon, New Gisborne and Woodend.
The Black Forest Drive bushfire is under control and there is currently no threat.
However, people should stay informed and monitor conditions.
11.51am
There is a watch and act message in place because of a fire at Mount Glasgow, south of Maryborough.
The warning is for Clunes, Dunach, Evansford, Glengower, Mount Cameron, Mount Glasgow, Red Lion, Stony Creek, Mount Beckworth and Caralulup.
There is a grassfire at Firmans Road, Mount Glasgow that is not yet under control. It is travelling in a southerly direction towards Mount Glasgow.
The Country Fire Authority urged people to monitor changes to the situation.
- If you are away from home, do not return.
- If you are currently driving slow down and turn on your headlights; smoke will make it difficult to see.
- If the situation changes you will need to leave quickly. Plan to:
- Take your pets, medications, mobile phone and charger.
- Travel to the home of family or friends that are away from the warning area.
Emergency Services may not be able to help you if you decide to stay.
Grassfires can start and spread quickly and are extremely dangerous. They generate extreme heat that would kill before the flames reach you.
The fire authority will issue another update by 1.40 pm or as the situation changes.
11.30am
11.16am
THE State Emergency Service is preparing for a busy day ahead.
Volunteers are attending a tree down in Spring Gully and a tree on a house in Golden Square.
Bendigo State Emergency Service spokeswoman Natalie Stanway said no one was injured in the tree fall.
"I expect we're going to get more tree work as the wind picks up," she said.
Ms Stanway said there were crews on standby to help and attend the incident control centre if needed.
She advised people to make sure they were prepared and have an emergency kit packed, if they hadn't already left.
The service has active volunteer numbers in the low 40s.
But Ms Stanway said there were fewer people on call-out because of the fire risk.
"I'm not responding today because I live in grassland," she said.
"It's not a great day, weather-wise. We have to hope we don't have any foolish people do any foolish things."
The service has cancelled its planned training for tonight because of the weather.
11am
More than 600 households are without power, the Powercor website shows.
Faults are located at Bendigo-Pyramid Road in Pyramid Hill; Autumn Gully Road at Spring Gully; Anderson Road, River Avenue and Echuca Village in Echuca; Borung-Charlton Road in Buckrabanyule; Degraves Road at Hunter; Eastwoods Road at Macarthur; Grandview Avenue at Macedon and Coggers Lane at Mount Macedon; Black Range Road at Romsey; and River Road at Swan Hill.
10.41am
Victoria Legal Aid has advised people its duty lawyers and outreach staff will not be available in a number of locations, including Bendigo and Echuca, because of the Code Red warning.
10.15am
The temperature in Bendigo has already reached 36.7 degrees, with wind gusts of 54 kilometres an hour also recorded.
The Country Fire Authority is urging people to use their bushfire plan.
"Homes are not built to withstand the types of fires we may see on a code red day and you don't want to be caught travelling through areas on fire at the last minute, if you wait and see," Country Fire Authority chief officer Steve Warrington said.
The strong winds are also increasing pollen levels.
Thursday, 9am
Fire crews are on standby ahead of a day of scorching temperatures and gusty winds across central and northern Victoria.
A Code Red warning is in place for the Northern Country and Mallee districts.
Bendigo's forecast top today is 40 degrees, with a cool wind change expected this afternoon.
The schools and early learning centres that are closed today because of the Code Red warning are listed below. The Bendigo TAFE's Bendigo, Castlemaine and Echuca campuses are also shut today.
Wednesday
CENTRAL Victoria is facing a Code Red fire danger rating on Thursday - the first warning of its type in almost a decade.
Mallee and Northern Country districts have both been labelled as Code Red - the highest warning level.
Northern Country encompasses Greater Bendigo, Campaspe, Loddon, Greater Shepparton, Moira and Strathbogie municipalities. Mallee includes Buloke, Gannawarra, Swan Hill, Mildura and Yarriambiack.
Emergency Management commissioner Andrew Crisp said if a fire started in the conditions predicted it would be uncontrollable, unpredictable and fast-moving.
He said fire agencies would find these fires difficult to control.
There is a high likelihood that people in the path of a fire will be killed or seriously injured in these conditions.
The warning also means some schools and services will be closed.
Crusoe College, California Gully Primary School, Eaglehawk North Primary School, Specimen Hill Primary School, Kalianna School Bendigo, Maiden Gully Primary School, Spring Gully Primary School, Big Hill Primary School, Epsom Primary School and Marist College are among the region's schools that will close.
Bendigo Senior Secondary College will be open on Thursday, with year 11 exams set to go ahead as planned.
However, country buses will not run.
Principal Dale Pearce said students unable to attend because of a lack of bus would be offered the opportunity to reschedule.
St Therese's Primary School Bendigo will also open on Thursday.
A text to parents from Marist College said all exams on Thursday would be moved to Friday, and all Friday exams would move to Tuesday.
- North-western Victorian schools closed on Thursday (story continues below): Axedale Primary School, Bendigo Primary School, Beverford District Primary School, Big Hill Primary School, Birchip P-12 school, Boort District P-12 School - Malone Street Campus, Bridgewater Primary School, California Gully Primary School, Catherine McAuley College - La Valla Campus, Charlton College, Cohuna Secondary College, Colbinabbin Primary School, Crusoe 7-10 Secondary College, Donald High School, Eaglehawk North Primary School, Eaglehawk Primary School, Eaglehawk Secondary College, East Loddon P-12 College, Eppalock Primary School, Epsom Primary School, Girgarre Primary School, Glenvale School - Bendigo Centre, Goornong Primary School, Gunbower Primary School, Heathcote Primary School, Holy Rosary School, Huntly Primary School, Inglewood Primary School, Kalianna Special School, Kalianna Special School - Whipstick Environment Centre, Kennington Primary School, Kennington Primary School - Bendigo Deaf Facility, Koondrook Primary School, Koorlong Primary School, Lake Charm Primary School, Lancaster Primary School, Leitchville Primary School, Lightning Reef Primary School - Holmes Road Campus, Lockwood Primary School, Lockwood South Primary School, Maiden Gully Primary School, Manangatang P-12 College, Marist College Bendigo, Marong Primary School, Murrabit Group School, Murrayville Community College, Nangiloc Colignan and District Primary School - Nangiloc Colignan And District Primary School, Nullawil Primary School Ouyen P-12 College, Pyramid Hill College, Quambatook Group School, Raywood Primary School, Redesdale Mia Mia Primary School, Rushworth P-12 College - Rushworth Secondary Campus, Specimen Hill Primary School, Spring Gully Primary School, St Francis of the Fields School, St Monica's School, Stanhope Primary School, Strathfieldsaye Primary School, Swan Hill College - FLO Campus, Tarnagulla Primary School, Tyrell College, Ultima Primary School, Underbool Primary School, Victory Christian College, Wedderburn College, Weeroona College - Bendigo FLO, Werrimull P-12 School, White Hills Primary School, Woorinen District Primary School and Wycheproof P-12 College.
- Early childhood services closed on Thursday: Assisi Kindergarten Strathfieldsaye, Bendigo Community Children's Services Heathcote OSHC, Bendigo Regional YMCA Youth Services - St Monicas ASC Program, Bendigo Stadium, Bendigo YMCA Occasional Care, Big Hill Primary School Combined OSHC, Birchip Early Learning Centre, Boort Preschool, BRYMCA St Francis of the Fields ASC Program, California Gully Primary School Outside School Hours Care, Camp Australia - Bendigo Violet Street Primary School OSHC, Camp Australia - Eaglehawk North Primary School OSHC, Camp Australia - Spring Gully Primary School OSHC, Camp Australia - Strathfieldsaye Primary School OSHC, Camp Australia - Victory Christian College OSHC, Colbinabbin Preschool, Community Kids Golden Square Early Education Centre, Country Buddies Bendigo, Creative Garden Early Learning Centre Bendigo, Dingee Preschool, Donald Children's Centre, Epsom Primary School OSHC, First Grammar Bendigo, Gannawarra Shire Children's Centre, Girgarre Community Kindergarten, Goodstart Early Learning Echuca, Goodstart Early Learning Golden Square, Goodstart Early Learning Kangaroo Flat, Goodstart Early Learning Strathfieldsaye, Havilah Road Preschool, Helen Jessen Early Learning Centre, Huntly Primary School OSHC, Inglewood Kindergarten, Jenny's Kindergarten Maiden Gully, Kalianna OSHC, Kerang and District Children's Centre, Koondrook Preschool, Lockwood Primary School Outside School Hours Care, Lockwood South Combined Outside School Hours Care, Maiden Gully Primary School OSH Care, Mallee Minors Child Care Centre - Murrayville, Mallee Minors Child Care Centre - Ouyen, Mallee Minors Child Care Centre - Underbool, Mallee Minors Vacation Care Program, Manangatang & District Preschool, Marong Primary School Outside School Hours Care, Millewa Preschool, Nangiloc & District Kindergarten, Natual Learners, Ouyen Preschool, Pyramid Hill Preschool, Rushworth Kindergarten & Child Care, Shine Bright Axedale Kindergarten, Shine Bright Echuca Central Kindergarten, Shine Bright Gunbower Kindergarten, Shine Bright Heathcote Kindergarten, Shine Bright Huntly Kindergarten, Shine Bright Kennington Kindergarten, Shine Bright Lockington Kindergarten, Shine Bright Marong Kindergarten, Shine Bright Spring Gully Kindergarten, Shine Bright Strathfieldsaye Kindergarten, Shine Bright Woorinen South Kindergarten, Specimen Hill Primary Combined OSHC, Stepping Stones - Marist OSHC, Team Holiday - Maiden Gully, Team Holiday - Strathfieldsaye, and Wedderburn Preschool.
Mr Crisp said a Code Red day was determined because a combination of high temperatures overnight, little relief followed up with predicted high temperatures and high wind speeds on Thursday.
There is a statewide total fire ban for Thursday.
Mr Crisp said the state had not experienced a Code Red day under the current framework, and it needed to be taken seriously.
"Our message to community members in these areas is that leaving high bushfire risk areas tonight or early tomorrow morning is the safest option," he said.
"We know this can be difficult to plan for and some will find it inconvenient.
"As a result of the predicted conditions, some schools and early childhood centres will be closed in some weather districts and community services may not be available.
"Your plans need to suit your circumstances, however going to your nearest regional city centre, going to the movies, the pool, or a shopping centre are some options people can consider."
Mr Crisp said it was already hot and people needed to ensure they were looking after themselves and others, particularly those who need additional assistance in the heat.
"Our community members should be prepared for fire, and know where to get information to make good decisions about your safety," he said.
"Given fires could start and move quickly, you won't always receive a warning or be told what to do if a fire starts. The fire agencies advise you not to wait and see, it's up to you to be prepared and to know what you will do.
"The safest place to be is away from high risk bushfire areas in a Code Red and leaving the night before or early in the day is the safest option."
A Code Red day means that all public parks will be closed, some community services will be unavailable and some council facilities will be closed.
During extreme weather, such as a Code Red day, localised power blackouts could occur.
People are urged to have an emergency kit ready, including medication, battery-operated torches, radio and phones.
The Emergency Management commissioner said people should:
- Bookmark www.emergency.vic.gov.au, download the VicEmergency app and set up your own Watchzone or tune in to ABC Local Radio, commercial and designated community radio stations, or Sky News TV;
- Call the VicEmergency Hotline to talk to someone about preparedness on freecall 1800 226 226; People who are deaf, hard of hearing, or who have a speech/communication impairment can contact VicEmergency Hotline via the National Relay Service on 1800 555 677;
- For help with English, call the Translating and Interpreting Service on 131 450 (freecall) and ask them to telephone VicEmergency Hotline. If you know someone who cannot speak English, provide them with this number.
Country Fire Authority chief officer Steve Warrington said Victoria's fire agencies and emergency managers were on high alert and prepared for the worst conditions.
"Tomorrow's conditions will be extremely difficult for firefighters and the community if we get fires running," he said.
"The reality is fires are incredibly difficult to control and there are many aspects our communities need to consider in planning for it.
"Homes are not built to withstand the types of fires we may see on a Code Red day and you don't want to be caught travelling through areas on fire at the last minute if you wait and see."
Public transport and driving on Code Red day
Coaches will replace trains between Bendigo, Swan Hill and Echuca on Thursday due to the declaration of a Code Red Day.
V/Line said coaches would replace all Swan Hill and Echuca services for all or part of the journey.
Public Transport Victoria earlier announced select lines on the V/Line train network would operate to an extreme heat timetable or experience service changes on Thursday.
The Bendigo-Echuca-Swan Hill line is affected, along with the Geelong-Warrnambool, Seymour-Shepparton, and Traralgon-Bairnsdale lines.
Trains on the extreme heat timetables will travel at lower speeds in order to reduce the likelihood of train and track faults.
- See Bendigo's revised timetable here
Coaches will replace all Swan Hill, Echuca, Shepparton and Albury services for all or part of the journey.
The Department of Transport advised to visit the V/Line website to check for service changes on the Ararat and Maryborough, Bairnsdale, Bendigo, Geelong, Gippsland, Seymour, Shepparton, Swan Hill and Echuca and Warrnambool lines.
A department spokesperson said V/Line would have extra support crews to respond to any incidents, ensuring passengers stay cool and get moving as quickly as possible.
The spokesperson encouraged passengers to travel with bottled water, wear cool clothing and delay travel if they felt unwell. There will also be drinking water available on trains.
The department also reminded motorists to prepare for the hotter conditions and the increased likelihood of vehicle breakdowns.
The spokesperson said drivers should check brakes, tyres, oil and water, and ensure there was enough fuel before setting off.
In the event of a breakdown, drivers should stop or park in the shade and avoid parking on long dry grass, which becomes a potential fire hazard due to the hot exhaust system.
Never leave children or pets unattended in a parked car. Temperatures quickly rise to dangerous levels and can have tragic consequences.
People can see the latest public transport information and network status vline.com.au, ptv.vic.gov.au or in the PTV mobile app.
Real-time traffic conditions are available at traffic.vicroads.vic.gov.au or via the VicTraffic mobile app.
If anyone sees any hazards on the roads, the department asked them to report them to the VicRoads Traffic Management Centre on 13 11 70 (open 24/7). In an emergency, call Triple Zero.
Neighbourhood Safer Places
Below is a list of Neighbourhood Safer Places, also known as a Bushfire Place of Last Resort - a place of last resort when all other bushfire plans have failed. For more information, click here.
Greater Bendigo
Axedale: Axedale Primary School. Oval Bounded by McIvor Highway (High Street), Shadforth Street, Mitchell Street and Raglan Street Axedale 3551. Parking available in Raglan Street
Bendigo: Queen Elizabeth Oval, corner View Street and Barnard Street Bendigo 3550. Entry off View Street
Eaglehawk: Canterbury Park Sports Precinct, car parks and event space 16 Simpsons Road (opposite Trumble Street) Eaglehawk 3556.
Heathcote: Holy Rosary Primary School. Oval Bounded by Ebden Street, Pohlman Street and Playne Street Heathcote 3523. Entry off Ebden Street or Pohlman Street
Junortoun: Lords Raceway. McIvor Highway (entry opposite Atlas Road) Junortoun 3551.
Kangaroo Flat: Centro Lansell (Lansell Plaza). Car park Calder Highway (High Street) opposite Symes Street Kangaroo Flat 3555.
Dower Park. Cnr Station Street & Olympic Parade (entry off Station Street) Kangaroo Flat 3555.
Maiden Gully: Maiden Gully Primary School. Basketball courts and surrounds Corner Carolyn Way and Glenelg Drive Maiden Gully 3551. Best access from Glenelg Drive
North Bendigo: Showgrounds. Bendigo-Eaglehawk Road (Holmes Road) opposite Havilah Road North Bendigo 3550.
Redesdale: Redesdale Recreation Reserve (Agnes Mudford Reserve). Oval Corner Kyneton-Redesdale Road (Heathcote-Kyneton Road) and Sutton Grange-Redesdale Road (Bendigo-Redesdale Road) Redesdale 3444.
Strathfieldsaye: Primary School. 9 Uxbridge Street (opposite Apsley Street) Strathfieldsaye 3551.
Central Goldfields Shire
Carisbrook: Carisbrook Market Reserve. Bounded by Green Street, Urquhart Street, Powlett Street and Birch Street Carisbrook 3464.
Dunolly: Dunolly Gordon Gardens. Bounded by Barkly Street, Thompson Street and Market Street Dunolly 3472.
Maryborough: Jack Pascoe Reserve. Oval Bounded by Gillies Street, Majorca Road and Cadle Street Maryborough 3465. Entry off Gillies Street or Cadle Street
Maryborough Princes Park. Oval 40 Park Road (between Nightingale Street and Wills Street) Maryborough 3465.
Talbot: Pioneer Reserve. Corner Fyfe Street and Scandinavian Crescent Talbot 3371.
Buloke Shire
Charlton: Charlton Shire Hall, 9-11 Armstrong Street (Charlton-St Arnaud Road) opposite Camp Street Charlton 3525.
Donald: Donald Showgrounds, Hammill Street (Borung Highway) opposite Mill Street Donald 3480.
Campaspe Shire
Echuca: Echuca South Recreation Reserve. Oval High Street (opposite Minor Street) Echuca 3564.
How is the fire danger rating determined?
The Bureau of Meteorology forecasts other fire danger ratings based on weather conditions and fuel load.
However, a Code Red Day is determined by the Emergency Management commissioner. The commissioner takes into consideration a range of factors including fire dander ratings, fuel conditions, agricultural activity, fires already burning, uncontrolled ignitions, community risk, population movement and major events.
The commissioner makes this determination through consultation with emergency management heads including fire, health, police, transport and energy representatives.
The Code Red Day determination is linked strongly to Bureau of Meteorology forecasts of extreme fire danger rating in either grassland or forest.
This is the first time a Code Red Day has been determined by the Emergency Management Commissioner under these arrangements.
Have you signed up to the Bendigo Advertiser's daily newsletter and breaking news emails? You can register below and make sure you are up to date with everything that's happening in central Victoria.