Archive · 9 Jan 2026
Australia Faces Catastrophic Bushfire Conditions Friday
Australia is facing very dangerous bushfires, especially in the state of Victoria.
The fires are so bad that the danger level is called 'catastrophic,' which is the highest level.
Two big fires are burning near the towns of Longwood and Walwa, and they might keep growing because of the heat and wind.
Many schools in Victoria will be closed on Friday because it's too dangerous.
Even New Zealand is feeling the heat, with warnings about very high temperatures over the weekend.
People are being told to be very careful and follow the advice from authorities to stay safe.
Catastrophic fire danger rating issued for Friday in Victoria, Australia.
Two large bushfires near Longwood and Walwa have destroyed at least two structures and are expected to spread.
Temperatures forecast to exceed 40°C in parts of Victoria, with total fire bans issued.
450 schools in Victoria to close on Friday due to fire danger, with regional train services also cancelled.
New Zealand issues heat alerts for parts of the eastern coast and the north of the South Island.
- Who
- Authorities and communities in Victoria, Australia, and New Zealand
- What
- Catastrophic bushfire conditions and heatwave
- When
- Friday, following Thursday's uncontrolled fires
- Where
- Victoria, Australia, and parts of New Zealand
- Why
- Due to extreme temperatures and wind conditions
Authorities and Emergency Services
Residents and Affected Communities
Evacuation Orders
Authorities and Emergency Services
Authorities have issued evacuation orders for dozens of neighboring towns due to the high risk of life and property loss.
Residents and Affected Communities
Residents are being forced to leave their homes and businesses, causing significant disruption and concern.
Fire Danger Rating
Authorities and Emergency Services
Authorities have set the fire danger rating to 'catastrophic' to emphasize the extreme risk and ensure public safety.
Residents and Affected Communities
Residents are worried about the potential loss of life and property, and the impact on their livelihoods.
- Fire Danger Rating
- Catastrophic
- Affected States
- Victoria, New Zealand
- Temperature Forecast
- Exceeding 40°C
- Affected Areas
- Longwood, Walwa
- School Closures
- 450 schools in Victoria
- Fire Ban
- Issued in several districts
- Heat Alerts
- Issued for parts of New Zealand
- Fire Size
- Longwood: 25,000 hectares, Walwa: 10,000 hectares
Sources
Bushfires rage in Australia’s southeast, authorities warn of ‘catastrophic’ Friday conditions
Evacuations ordered amid catastrophic bushfire danger in Australia's Victoria
Bushfires rage in Australia’s southeast, authorities warn of ‘catastrophic’ conditions