**Victoria storms, bushfires spark warnings over Grampians, Little Desert during heatwave**
Victoria is grappling with a dangerous mix of bushfires and damaging storms as high summer temperatures persist across the state. Emergency authorities have issued warnings for multiple regions, including the Grampians National Park and Little Desert National Park, as residents are urged to remain vigilant, monitor conditions closely, and follow official advice.
The ongoing heatwave has created ideal conditions for bushfires, with dry vegetation and strong winds fuelling fire outbreaks in recent days. High temperatures across the western and northern parts of the state added to the risk, prompting authorities to declare Total Fire Bans in multiple districts. According to the Victorian Country Fire Authority (CFA), firefighters have been battling blazes in a number of areas, with resources stretched due to the challenging conditions.
One of the key areas of concern is the Grampians National Park, where fast-moving fires have already burned several hectares. Firefighters have been working through the night to contain the blaze, supported by aircraft conducting water-bombing operations. Lightning strikes from severe thunderstorms, which swept through parts of the state over the weekend, are believed to have ignited some of the fires. However, investigations into the precise cause of each fire are still ongoing.
Little Desert National Park is also under close observation as high temperatures and strong winds increase the likelihood of flare-ups. Authorities have not yet reported large-scale fire activity within the park itself as of the latest updates, but the area remains at risk due to the surrounding dry conditions.
Simultaneously, severe storms have lashed parts of Victoria, bringing heavy rainfall, damaging winds, and hail. The State Emergency Service (SES) received hundreds of calls for assistance in recent days, with reports of fallen trees, damaged roofs, and localised flooding in storm-affected areas. Many of the storm hit areas were concentrated in central and southern parts of the state, causing challenges for emergency responders who were already dealing with fire outbreaks elsewhere.
The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued ongoing warnings for severe thunderstorms and heatwave conditions in affected areas. The BOM noted that while the rainfall offered some relief for certain dry areas, it was unlikely to be sufficient to dampen the overall fire risk due to the sporadic and uneven nature of the storms.
Authorities have emphasised the critical importance of public awareness and preparedness, urging residents in high-risk areas to have bushfire survival plans in place. Community meetings have been held in various districts to brief residents on the evolving situation, as emergency broadcasters provide regular updates on fire warnings, evacuation routes, and weather conditions.
In addition, health authorities have cautioned against the dangers posed by the heatwave, especially for vulnerable groups such as the elderly, young children, and people with pre-existing medical conditions. Ambulance Victoria has reported an increase in callouts related to heat stress and dehydration as temperatures climb into the high 30s and low 40s in some areas. Residents are being reminded to stay hydrated, minimise outdoor activities during peak heat hours, and check on family members and neighbours who may be at risk.
Travel in and around affected areas remains challenging, with authorities urging residents and tourists to avoid non-essential travel near active fire zones or storm-damaged regions. Several roads and access routes have been closed temporarily due to fire activity, fallen debris, and flooding in some spots. Visitors to popular national parks, including the Grampians and Little Desert, are advised to reconsider their travel plans until the risk subsides.
Victoria Police and emergency services continue to work collaboratively to direct resources where they are most needed. Incident control centres have been established in key regions to coordinate firefighting, storm response, and recovery efforts. Regional communities have also banded together, with local volunteers assisting emergency services in their efforts.
The unfolding events in Victoria remain a stark reminder of the challenges faced during Australia’s summer months, where bushfire season regularly converges with other weather extremes. While the immediate focus remains on managing the current crisis, authorities have highlighted the broader need for continued investment in fire prevention strategies and climate resilience measures, which aim to reduce the long-term impact of such natural disasters.
For now, residents in affected areas are urged to continue monitoring official updates from the Bureau of Meteorology, Country Fire Authority, State Emergency Service, and Emergency Management Victoria. The situation is ongoing, and changes in fire and weather conditions may require quick action, including potential evacuations.
As of now, no fatalities have been reported, though many homes and properties in fire and storm-affected areas have sustained damage. Observations suggest that wildlife in regions such as the Grampians National Park has also been heavily impacted. However, full assessments of the ecological impact are not expected until the fires are under control.
The Victorian government has commended the efforts of emergency responders, praising their rapid response amidst challenging conditions. Premier Jacinta Allan stated in a press briefing that the safety of residents and emergency personnel remains the top priority. She also encouraged communities to stay united and support one another during these difficult times.
Weather forecasts indicate that high temperatures are likely to persist for the next several days, maintaining elevated fire danger in some regions despite the recent storm activity. The Bureau of Meteorology is predicting ongoing thunderstorms, but it is unclear whether significant rainfall will reach critical areas. Updated guidance from the BOM and emergency services will remain critical for Victoria in the days ahead.
Victoria’s combined struggles with bushfires, storms, and the heatwave highlight the complex challenges posed by a summer season that continues to test the resilience of communities, emergency responders, and local ecosystems. Residents are reminded to remain vigilant and prioritise safety above all as conditions across the state evolve.
**References**
ABC News: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-02-03/victoria-storms-bushfires-grampians-little-desert-heatwave/104887702
Bureau of Meteorology
Country Fire Authority
State Emergency Service
Emergency Management Victoria
Ambulance Victoria