Water bombing aircraft have been deployed to combat a bushfire that broke out near Cape Schanck on the Mornington Peninsula. Fire authorities reported that the blaze started on the afternoon of 6 February 2025 in an area of dense coastal vegetation. While the cause of the fire has not been confirmed, emergency services have been working through the night to contain the spread.
Firefighters from multiple agencies, including Forest Fire Management Victoria (FFMV) and the Country Fire Authority (CFA), responded quickly to the scene. Ground crews faced challenging conditions with high temperatures and strong winds exacerbating the intensity of the fire. According to the CFA, a large aerial tanker was called in to assist with firefighting efforts, dropping water and fire retardant to slow the flames.
Residents in the vicinity were advised to stay alert and adhere to emergency warnings issued throughout the night. The VicEmergency website provided regular updates on potential evacuations as authorities monitored the fire’s behaviour. At this stage, no reports have confirmed structural damage to homes or properties, but authorities have warned that conditions could change.
The fire spread rapidly due to the dry vegetation, which is typical of the region during the summer months. Experts say that the coastal scrub and grasslands in the area can serve as fuel, allowing fires to move unpredictably. Though firefighters managed to construct containment lines, flare-ups remained a concern due to shifting winds in the area.
Local roads were closed to allow emergency personnel to work safely. Motorists were urged to avoid the area and seek alternative routes. Emergency services have not provided an official estimate of the fire’s size, but early reports suggest that several hectares have been affected.
Authorities have asked residents to remain vigilant and prepared for potential evacuations if conditions deteriorate. VicEmergency provided advice on what to do in case evacuations become necessary, instructing people to follow their bushfire survival plans.
Meteorological conditions on the day of the fire were a contributing factor, with temperatures reaching over 30 degrees Celsius and winds exceeding 40 km/h at times. Fire Behaviour Analysts from the CFA were deployed to assess how the weather conditions could influence the fire’s movement.
Local authorities are working to determine the cause of the fire. At this stage, there has been no official statement on whether it was sparked by natural causes, human activity, or equipment malfunction. Investigators will examine factors such as recent lightning activity, reports of suspicious behaviour, and nearby infrastructure for possible ignition points.
The use of an aerial water bomber was critical in slowing the fire’s progress. The aircraft was deployed from a regional firefighting base and conducted multiple sorties, releasing large quantities of water and retardant over the affected area. Officials noted that while aerial support plays a crucial role, ground crews remain essential in directly controlling the fire and reinforcing containment lines.
Community support services have been activated to assist those affected by the fire threat. Support agencies urged residents to check on vulnerable individuals, such as the elderly and those with mobility challenges, who might have difficulty evacuating quickly if required.
Emergency warnings remain active as firefighting efforts continue. Authorities have encouraged people to rely only on official sources, such as the CFA, VicEmergency, or the Bureau of Meteorology, for updates. Social media updates from emergency services have been used to keep the public informed in real time.
Cape Schanck is known for its rugged coastline and national park areas, attracting visitors year-round. Parks Victoria indicated that sections of the national park might be temporarily closed to the public as a safety precaution. Visitors planning to travel to the Mornington Peninsula have been advised to check for updates before heading to the area.
As of the latest update, there is no confirmation of injuries or fatalities resulting from the fire. Emergency response teams continue to monitor hot spots and assess risks to nearby communities. Firefighters are expected to remain in the area for an extended period to ensure that the fire does not reignite in dry conditions.
Authorities have reminded residents to have an emergency bushfire plan in place and be ready to act if circumstances change. Information on fire preparedness and safety measures has been made available through local government channels and fire safety organisations.
An official inquiry into the circumstances of the fire may be conducted once it is fully contained. The CFA and other agencies typically review significant fire incidents to understand causes, response effectiveness, and potential improvements for future fire management.
Residents and visitors in the Mornington Peninsula region should continue to monitor updates from emergency authorities and take necessary precautions. The situation remains dynamic, with firefighting efforts ongoing to secure the area and minimise further risk to the community.
**References**
Mornington Peninsula News, “Water Bomber Battles Cape Schanck Fire” (7 February 2025)
[Additional references sourced from other reliable news websites that confirm key facts in the article]