Firefighters have been working diligently overnight to protect homes from a bushfire that continues to spread through the Grampians/Gariwerd National Park in Victoria. Currently, there are two emergency warnings in place for various communities, including Pomonal, Moyston, Willaura, Mafeking, and Maroona.
The fire has devastated approximately 74,000 hectares of bushland, an area renowned for its hiking trails, camping spots, and stunning rock formations that attract many visitors. In just a week, the fire expanded dramatically from 6,000 hectares, a growth comparable to the size of Singapore, as explained by Luke Heagerty from the State Control Centre. During the height of the crisis, there were 12 Vic Emergency warnings issued.
While no homes have been lost, some sheds and camping facilities have been damaged. The current focus for firefighters is to establish containment lines along the fire’s active edges, aided by cooler weather expected over the next five days. Additional support has arrived from other states, with about 100 emergency personnel deployed to assist in the firefighting efforts.
Garry Cook from the State Control Centre highlighted the complexity of battling the fire, noting its extensive fire edge of approximately 338 kilometers. He cautioned that the communities affected still face substantial risks, especially with the dry lightning that struck recently.
Premier Jacinta Allan expressed her gratitude towards the firefighters who have dedicated their Christmas to safeguard others, urging the public to heed safety advice during this busy holiday season. Despite the cooler conditions forecasted, the fire is likely to continue burning for weeks, particularly if winds change.
The bushfire has disrupted power supply to many areas, such as Moyston, Willaura, and Pomonal, and damaged vital infrastructure including the Mt William communications tower. Relief centers in nearby towns are offering community support, where residents are coming together during this challenging time.
Local business owners like Noel Maslamoney have shared their struggles, especially following a recent hailstorm disaster. Meanwhile, staff from a nearby pub have shown commendable spirit by providing meals for the firefighters, maintaining a sense of community amidst adversity.
In summary, while the situation remains critical as the fire continues to threaten local communities, the commitment of firefighters and the solidarity among local residents present a hopeful outlook. Their collective efforts showcase resilience and support as they navigate this difficult period together.
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