Australia Prepares for Severe Bushfire Risk on Christmas and Boxing Day

Authorities warn of extreme fire conditions across Victoria and South Australia, with temperatures nearing 40°C and strong winds expected to exacerbate ongoing fires.

Firefighters are battling major blazes in Victoria's Grampians National Park, which has already burned over 44,000 hectares, and other areas across the state.
Boxing Day is forecast to bring dangerous fire conditions with temperatures exceeding 40°C and wind gusts of up to 100 km/h, raising concerns about rapid fire spread.
Residents of Halls Gap and surrounding communities were briefly allowed to retrieve belongings before evacuating as authorities brace for worsening conditions.
South Australia is also under heightened fire danger, with total fire bans declared and warnings about the potential for fast-moving fires due to dry conditions and increasing winds.
Over 100 interstate firefighters and additional resources have been deployed to assist local crews, as officials urge residents to stay informed and have fire survival plans ready.