A dangerous bushfire has triggered a fresh emergency warning in Victoria's north-east, with residents in several communities ordered to evacuate immediately in the early hours of Sunday morning.
Emergency Warning Issued for Multiple Communities
The urgent alert was issued just after midnight as a fast-moving blaze, fuelled by dangerous conditions, roared through rugged country approximately 25 kilometres west of Walwa. The fire is threatening the communities of Granya, Bungil, Burrowye, and Walwa itself.
Authorities confirmed the fire was out of control and warned that conditions could shift without warning, making the situation highly unpredictable and perilous for anyone in its path.
Situation Worsens, Safe Escape Cut Off
By 6.30am, the fire emergency had escalated significantly. Officials were forced to update their advice, urging anyone still in the direct path of the inferno to take shelter immediately.
In a stark message, they stated it was now too late for a safe escape, highlighting the rapid and severe deterioration of the situation as the bushfire advanced.
Part of a Wider State Crisis
This specific fire emergency is unfolding amidst a broader crisis across the state of Victoria. Fierce winds and scorching heat have ignited more than 200 fires statewide.
The collective devastation is severe, with reports indicating at least 130 buildings have been destroyed, including dozens of family homes. The impact on agriculture has also been catastrophic, with entire paddocks of crops and livestock wiped out.
Emergency services continue to battle the multiple blazes as the situation develops.
