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Update On Razorback Fire 1600 Hrs 17/01/03

In a worsening fire weather situation several fires in north east Victoria this afternoon broke away from their intended control lines.

By DSE/CFA - 20th January 2003 - Back to News

In a worsening fire weather situation several fires in north east Victoria this afternoon broke away from their intended control lines.

The Mount Feathertop fire in particular has broken out on the east and western sides and is potentially threatening the Hotham Heights Alpine Resort.

CFA strike teams have moved into Mt Hotham, into Falls Creek and into Harrietville. Only Hotham Heights Alpine Resort is threatened at this stage and arrangements are being made for people to leave safely.

CFA and DSE staff are working closely with local communities as the situation develops.

The Great Alpine Road has been closed between Bright and Omeo. The Dargo High Plains Road has also been closed. Public access to the alpine resorts and surrounding area has been closed and will remain closed for several days.

Fire has spotted across containment lines on the western flank and is burning near Bogong Saddle on the Omeo Highway. Backburns are being monitored closely and bulldozers are working on fallback lines south of the fire, to protect private property in the Glen Wills area. Smoky conditions are still preventing the use of air bombers.

The fire near Tubbut that DSE and CFA crews worked on overnight has also flared under current weather conditions. Firebombers are now working on that fire.

Due to increased fire activity this afternoon, residents south of the Razorback fire, including Omeo and Swifts Creek areas can expect heavy smoke, with the possibility of some ash reaching their property.

The Department and the CFA reiterate that people must remain vigilant and not rely on the authorities for warning of approaching fire. They will not be able to let everyone know in time and residents are expected to be self-reliant in dealing with the situation.

Current road closures in East Gippsland as at 1530 hours on Friday January 17:

• Omeo Highway between Omeo and Mitta Mitta
• Great Alpine Road north of Omeo
• Benambra-Corryong road, between Omeo and Corryong
• Bogong High Plains Road, between Falls Creek and Omeo Highway
• Knocker Track
• Dargo High Plains Road

For local Community Information, please call the Swifts Creek DPI office on 51 595 143 or 51 595 136.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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