Advertisement

Four homes lost, worst over in Vic fires

Victoria’s fire chief says the worst of the state’s bushfire emergency is over.

Four homes have been lost in the Grampians fire, one of 34 still active across the state.

Fire Services Commissioner Craig Lapsley says fires, mostly caused by lightning, have burned through 100,000 hectares.

Four homes have been lost in Victoria’s Grampians region along with numerous sheds and many kilometres of fencing, and up to 7500 sheep have been affected, most of which will have to be put down.

There are no emergency warnings currently in place.

Residents who were evacuated in the Grampians will be allowed back Saturday afternoon.

Mr Lapsley said 34 fires are listed as still going in Victoria, the main ones being in the Grampians, the Mallee, Gippsland and Big River Country.

Most of the fires were caused by lightning during the past two nights but a number were caused by human hand, either by recklessness or arson, Mr Lapsley said.

This included a fire in Melbourne’s outer northern suburb of Epping, where police are investigating a suspicious vehicle after fire began in multiple spots on the roadside.

Mr Lapsley says the worst appears to be over.

“I think the worst is behind us,” Mr Lapsley said.

However, fire crews are still monitoring north east Victoria which is still experiencing hot conditions.

Stay informed, daily
A FREE subscription to The New Daily arrives every morning and evening.
The New Daily is a trusted source of national news and information and is provided free for all Australians. Read our editorial charter
Copyright © 2024 The New Daily.
All rights reserved.