Victoria’s first Fire Danger Period (FDP) for the year has been declared in the far-north west of the State, following a delayed start to the year’s fire season due to widespread rainfall.
Chief Officer of the Country Fire Authority (CFA), Jason Heffernan said the FDP would begin at 1am next Monday (21 November) for the Mildura Rural City Council area.
“The return of a La Niña weather pattern has led to widespread rainfall and flooding in parts of the State, particularly in October,” CO Heffernan said.
“However, that doesn’t mean communities can become complacent about the increasing fire risk this season,” he said.
“The Seasonal Bushfire Outlook for spring released in August identified potential for increased grassfire conditions for the 2022/23 fire season.”
CO Heffernan said that based on the latest outlook, the fire season was expected to be normal in Victoria, except for parts of central and eastern Victoria where the potential was below normal.
He said despite the flooding along the Murray River, the wet spring had generated enormous grass growth right across the Mallee which presented a fire risk.
“Parts of north-west Victoria are experiencing days over 30 degrees and the grass is drying out rapidly in these areas,” the Chief Officer said.
“Hay baling and harvesting activities are beginning across the Mallee and now is the time to undertake those last-minute clean-up tasks on your property before the FDP begins,” he said.
“More hot weather is approaching and now is the time to prepare your family and property for fire season.”
As CFA firefighters prepare for the bushfire season, CO Heffernan urged the community to use common sense and take responsibility for preventing fires.
He advised residents in Mildura Rural City Council area to take this opportunity ahead of the FDP to conduct safe private burn-offs to reduce fuel loads and clean up their property.
Further information on FDPs can be accessed at this PS News link.
