Grampians Bushfire Expands to 70,000 Hectares as Winds Complicate Efforts

Communities in western Victoria face emergency warnings with evacuations underway and firefighters battling unpredictable conditions.

• The Grampians National Park fire has burned through 70,000 hectares, prompting emergency warnings for several nearby communities.
• Strong and erratic winds, with gusts up to 90 kph, are driving the fire and creating unpredictable conditions for firefighters and residents.
• Evacuation orders have been issued for towns including Strathmore, Kia Ora, and Willaura North, with some areas now deemed too dangerous to leave.
• Relief centers have been established in Ararat, Stawell, and Hamilton to support displaced residents, while interstate firefighting teams have joined the effort.
• Authorities report no fatalities but warn of significant challenges ahead as spot fires and wind changes continue to threaten additional areas.

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