A bushfire is threatening communities in southwest Victoria, Australia, as the state experiences a potentially record-breaking heatwave. The fire at Carlisle River in the Otways has escalated, forcing residents in a dozen towns to take shelter. The Emergency Warning system has been activated, urging people to leave immediately or find shelter. The fire, which started on January 10, has now escaped control lines due to hot weather and northwesterly winds, according to the State Control Centre spokesperson, David Nugent. The fire is dynamic and active, and additional aircraft and a large air-tanker have been deployed to combat it. Otway Blueberries owner Lisa Agnew describes the situation as ominous, with the ground near the Gellibrand fire turning a strange yellow color. The fire is burning at a similar distance to blazes earlier this month, and the business is preparing for ember attacks. Major fires are also burning in Longwood, Walwa, Mallacoota, and the Wonnangatta Valley, with Watch and Act warnings in place for some areas. The Emergency Management Commissioner, Tim Wiebusch, warns that while conditions are not as severe as on January 9, there is still significant fire danger across the state. The hot conditions are expected to continue for the next week, with temperatures reaching the high 30s and low 40s. The state is still recovering from recent fires that destroyed over 1,500 structures and killed livestock. The authorities urge residents to stay hydrated, seek shade, and remain safe during the heatwave.
