UPDATE: Victoria is facing a devastating bushfire crisis, with reports confirming one fatality, at least ten homes destroyed, and a family of three still missing. The fires have ravaged over 50,000 hectares of bushland, prompting Premier Jacinta Allan to declare a state of disaster across 18 local government areas as of January 9, 2026.
The situation escalated overnight, with authorities in the town of Longwood, located about 50 km north of Melbourne, reporting that some communities have been “completely obliterated.” Search efforts are intensifying for two adults and a child from a family who were last seen outside their now-destroyed home after being advised to shelter in place.
A total fire ban is currently in effect as firefighters battle more than 40 active blazes. The Longwood fire alone has expanded to 145,000 hectares, and emergency responders are on high alert, with over 600 firefighters deployed across the state. The NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) is also bracing for extreme conditions, expecting temperatures to soar to 43°C in Sydney, exacerbating fire risks.
Local resident and CFA captain George Noye described the aftermath, stating, “The main street looks like a bomb’s gone off.” Critical infrastructure has been severely impacted, leaving tens of thousands without power, clean drinking water, and telecommunications.
In the nearby town of Harcourt, the grim discovery of a man in his 60s, found dead in his vehicle, underscores the human toll of this crisis. Additionally, reports from Wahring indicate that a local firefighter has been hospitalized with severe burns, highlighting the dangers faced by those on the front lines.
Authorities are urging residents in affected areas to evacuate immediately, as conditions are expected to worsen. Premier Allan stated, “These fires are widespread, fast-moving, and devastating,” emphasizing the urgent need for community members to heed evacuation orders.
Emergency Management Victoria has labeled the fire conditions as “catastrophic and extreme,” marking the worst since the 2019-2020 Black Summer. Firefighters are experiencing fierce challenges, with wind gusts reaching up to 90 km/h contributing to the rapid spread of flames.
As rescue efforts continue, the public is reminded to stay informed and prepared. The state government has promised assistance to those who have lost their homes, with priority given to immediate needs such as food and medical supplies.
This developing situation remains dynamic, and authorities are actively monitoring fire behavior as they coordinate responses to protect lives and property. Stay tuned for more updates as this urgent story unfolds.
