THE Country Fire Authority is predicting that eastern Victoria will have a below-normal bushfire potential this spring, according to the Australian Seasonal Bushfire Outlook for spring.
Victoria’s east and north-east ranges experienced above-average rainfall in the past 12 months, and coupled with above-average rainfall outlook, below-average fire danger is expected in these areas.
Rainfall in June has offset drier-than- average conditions in west Gippsland.
Although recent drying is evident across some parts of the eastern ranges, it is expected to be offset by the forecast of a wetter-than-average spring, with further rainfall expected.
The Bureau of Meteorology has also forecast above median rainfall through spring.
Burnt areas from the 2018-19 and 2019-20 fire seasons will experience below normal fire risk in eastern Victoria.
CFA chief officer Jason Heffernan said Victoria was one of the most bushfire-prone areas in the world and even a normal fire season could present the risk of dangerous fires.
“Prepare your property ahead of this year’s fire season to minimise the chance of damage during a fire, even if you plan to leave early,” he said.
“Make sure you and everyone in your household knows what to do on hot, dry and windy days when fires can start and spread quickly.”
