Australia: ‘’Code red’’ fire warning issued in Victoria November 21

Event

On Wednesday, November 20, the Department of Fire and Emergency Services issued a ''code red'' fire warning (the highest fire danger rating) in the Malee and Northern Country regions of Victoria state for Thursday, November 21. The ''code red'' warning means that any fire will likely be so devastating that even the most prepared properties are at risk and preemptive evacuations are encouraged in the affected areas by Thursday morning (local time). A total fire ban has also been issued across the state, and dozens of schools and childcare centers have been asked to remain closed in northwest Victoria on Thursday. Further service and business disruptions are likely in the coming days.

Further fire warnings and evacuation orders are possible in Victoria state over the coming hours and days. A heightened security presence, road closures, and power outages are to be expected in the vicinity of any wildfire. Additional information on fire warnings can be found on the Victoria emergency information website here.

Context

Wildfires are an annual event in Australia between December and February; however, authorities have been on high alert since September 2015 over unseasonably warm temperatures, prompting scientists to speculate that climate change could be extending and increasing the intensity of the fire season.

Advice

Individuals in Victoria are advised to keep abreast of warnings and adhere to any instructions issued by local authorities (e.g. evacuation orders).