Firefighters Tackle Uncontained Bushfires in Victoria, Australia

Sydney, Dec 26 (NationPress) Firefighters are encountering significant challenges as they combat raging blazes across the Australian state of Victoria on Thursday, preparing for even more severe conditions, stated Victoria Emergency Management Commissioner Rick Nugent.

A total fire ban remains enforced across Victoria, with anticipated high temperatures and strong winds creating what could be the most extreme conditions for bushfires in years, as reported by Xinhua news agency.

Nugent informed reporters that gusty northerly winds are pushing the fire in the Grampians National Park southward in Victoria.

"This is complicating efforts to manage new fire outbreaks that have already occurred across the state," he added.

"A shift in wind conditions is expected that will move towards the southwest, further complicating matters for firefighters dealing with existing blazes."

The fire at Grampians National Park has already consumed approximately 55,000 hectares of land, resulting in considerable damage, including environmental harm, livestock losses, and destruction of outbuildings and sheds.

"Currently, there are no reports of residential homes being destroyed, but there are numerous residents in the Grampians, so it wouldn't be surprising if we eventually report residential losses," he noted.

Luke Heagerty from Victoria's State Control Center mentioned that the situation at the Grampians is evolving rapidly.

"We have noticed significant fire progression this afternoon, as anticipated, with the wind shift affecting parts of the fire ground," he explained.

"The fire expanded to the southeast this morning and early afternoon due to the northwesterly winds."

He added that the winds this afternoon have uprooted trees, potentially hindering residents attempting to evacuate the area.

Earlier on Friday, officials confirmed that property losses were reported in Victoria as extreme heat and gusty winds intensified bushfires, particularly in the western region of the state.

"We are now regrettably receiving reports of property loss due to the active nature of the fire and the challenging terrain in the region," said Jacinta Allan, Premier of Victoria, at the State Control Center.

On Thursday, an uncontrollable bushfire erupted at Bayindeen Rocky Road, spreading towards nearby communities.

As of Friday morning, the fire has scorched more than 11,000 hectares, with two emergency warnings currently in effect, urging residents to evacuate immediately before conditions worsen.