Victoria has declared a statewide total fire ban as the region braces for catastrophic fire conditions forecasted for Friday, January 9, 2026. The south-west of the state is particularly at risk, prompting closures of various facilities, including childcare centers, holiday parks, and beaches.
With temperatures expected to soar above 40 degrees Celsius and winds reaching speeds of 30 to 50 km/h, authorities are urging residents in high-risk areas to evacuate early. The Bureau of Meteorology has predicted temperatures of 32 degrees in Warrnambool, 33 in Port Fairy, 38 in Mortlake, and 37 in Hamilton.
Closures and Safety Measures
In response to the escalating danger, the Corangamite Shire has announced the closure of family daycare and childcare services, along with pool facilities in Camperdown, Cobden, Lismore, Skipton, Terang, and Timboon. The Port Campbell National Park, including the iconic Twelve Apostles, will also be closed to the public.
Meanwhile, Moyne Shire has closed pools in Hawkesdale, Mortlake, and Macarthur, as well as early years, maternal and child health centers, and waste facilities. Despite these closures, bushfire places of last resort and neighborhood safer places remain open for those in need.
Authorities Urge Early Evacuation
CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan has emphasized the importance of early evacuation for those in bushfire-prone areas. “Tomorrow’s hot and erratic fire conditions will put you and your family’s lives at risk if a fire starts and takes hold,” Heffernan stated. “The safest place to be is away from high-risk areas such as campsites, parks, and forests.”
“Don’t wait for official warnings. Do not plan to defend your home on catastrophic fire danger days – even well-prepared homes cannot withstand these conditions.” – Jason Heffernan, CFA Chief Officer
Emergency Management Commissioner Tim Wiebusch echoed these sentiments, advising residents to leave by 7 am on Friday if they are in areas with a catastrophic fire danger rating. “If you’re in those catastrophic fire danger areas where there are no fires at the moment, you should be leaving by 7 am on Friday, January 9,” Wiebusch advised.
Historical Context and Current Preparations
The last time Victoria faced a catastrophic fire danger rating across multiple districts was on November 21, 2019. This historical context underscores the severity of the current situation and the need for proactive measures.
Severe thunderstorms and potential dry lightning are also forecasted, which could complicate firefighting efforts. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through various channels, including the VicEmergency App and website, local radio, and social media updates from the CFA and VicEmergency.
Preparing for Catastrophic Conditions
Authorities have outlined several steps for residents to prepare for the impending fire danger:
- Plan to leave bushfire risk areas early in the morning or the night before.
- Pack an overnight bag with essential supplies, including provisions for pets and animals.
- Avoid unnecessary travel and check for road closures and detours.
- Prepare for power outages and check on vulnerable neighbors.
- Turn off hoses and sprinklers if evacuating a property connected to mains water.
Catastrophic fire danger signals the worst possible grass and bushfire conditions. Homes are not designed or constructed to withstand fire in these conditions – even the best-prepared homes will not be safe.
Looking Ahead
As Victoria braces for one of the most dangerous fire days of the summer, the emphasis remains on safety and early evacuation. Residents are urged to stay informed and act decisively to protect themselves and their families.
For more information on fire bans and safety measures, Victorians can visit the CFA website or contact the VicEmergency Hotline at 1800 226 226. As the situation develops, staying updated through reliable sources will be crucial for ensuring safety during these challenging conditions.
