Story perspectives

Victoria Faces Catastrophic Fire Threat Amid Raging Bushfires

1/9/2026

Summary

Story summary

A catastrophic fire warning is in effect for Victoria as two bushfires rage.
The Longwood fire has consumed 30,000 hectares, triggering evacuations in towns such as Ruffy, where properties are feared lost.
Firefighters are contending with temperatures above 40 degrees Celsius and severe winds while battling blazes.
Authorities have declared a statewide fire ban and urged residents in high-risk areas to leave immediately because dry lightning could ignite new fires.

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Story summary

A catastrophic fire warning is in effect for Victoria as two bushfires rage.
The Longwood fire has consumed 30,000 hectares, triggering evacuations in towns such as Ruffy, where properties are feared lost.
Firefighters are contending with temperatures above 40 degrees Celsius and severe winds while battling blazes.
Authorities have declared a statewide fire ban and urged residents in high-risk areas to leave immediately because dry lightning could ignite new fires.