March and April saw the fourth-highest temperatures on record, below-average rainfall across much of Victoria and an extension of the Fire Danger Period in some parts of the state for the first time since 2019.
These conditions, coupled with existing underlying dryness, have led to a higher level of dried grass and vegetation.
In grassland, halted pasture growth has led to grazed-out or bare conditions.
As a result, an above-average bushfire risk is predicted for much of south-west Gippsland, extending into central, south-west and north-west Victoria, as well as parts of north-east Victoria this winter.
The increased risk isn’t for long-running bushfires, but events caused by uncontrolled burn-offs and other activities.
Normal rainfall is expected this winter, and Victorians can expect normal fire potential across the rest of the state.
However, fires are possible on dry and windy days in areas with dry or cured vegetation.
“With warmer and drier conditions in large parts of the state leading into winter, it’s important to remain prepared for the potential of fires,” Acting Emergency Management Commissioner Tim Wiebusch said.
“If you are burning off, please remember to register via the Fire Permits Victoria website, check the weather and notify your neighbours.
“We may still see storms and other emergencies this winter, so it’s important to remain prepared for all emergencies.”
The emergency management sector is continuing its preparedness activities with statewide briefings and state-level exercising.
Incident management personnel are doing all they can to prepare for emerging risks and respond to any emergencies.
Keep up-to-date with the Fire Danger Ratings on the VicEmergency app and VicEmergency website.
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