Multiple properties are feared destroyed as an out‑of‑control bushfire continues to burn across central Victoria, amid Australia’s first major heatwave of the year. High temperatures across the country have intensified fire danger, prompting widespread emergency alerts.
Fire crews are battling two major bushfires in Victoria, with dozens of towns ordered to evacuate ahead of forecast “catastrophic” conditions on Friday.
Longwood Fire Burns Through 28,000 Hectares
The largest blaze, near Longwood, has already scorched 28,000 hectares. Communities to the south and east of the fire zone have been told to leave immediately.
Authorities have confirmed that at least one residential property in Ruffy, east of Seymour and within the Longwood fire area, has been destroyed.
“It’s Wild, It’s Gone” Homeowner Confirms Loss
Homeowner Rebekah Johnston‑Smith said her house on Nolans Road, the main road through the small township of Ruffy, has burned down.
She and her family were evacuated the previous night, but relatives who remained nearby later informed her that the home had been lost.
“It’s a really huge area that’s been impacted,” she said.
“Ruffy is a really picturesque spot it’s wild, it’s gone.”
Small Community Hit Hard
Ruffy, located in the Strathbogie Ranges, has a population of just 164 people (2021 census). The scale of the fire has raised concerns about further property losses as conditions worsen.
Emergency services continue to urge residents in threatened areas to leave early, warning that Friday’s weather could create life‑threatening fire behaviour.
+ There are no comments
Add yours