Otways fire triggers evacuation for over 1,000 homes in Victoria

Published: 26 January 2026. The English Chronicle Desk. The English Chronicle Online.

Residents are being urged to evacuate the Otways immediately as a massive fire threatens communities. The Otways fire has intensified, prompting authorities to warn more than 1,000 homes are at risk of destruction. Emergency services report that worsening heatwave conditions combined with strong northerly winds could push flames as far east as Lorne. Gellibrand resident Rob Murphy explained the fire’s proximity, saying his farm could face severe impacts depending on the shifting winds. “At the moment, the house is probably okay, but tomorrow is uncertain,” Murphy said while helping locals at the pub.

The State Control Centre confirmed that six major fires are active across Victoria, with the Otways blaze covering roughly 9,400 hectares. Firefighting efforts include over 300 personnel and six aircraft, yet officials remain concerned about the extreme conditions forecast for Tuesday. Reegan Key, the centre spokesperson, warned that the fire could impact areas including Upper Gellibrand, Forrest, Barongarook, and potentially Lorne if winds escalate. Authorities have been conducting door-to-door evacuations, urging residents to leave before sunset to ensure safety.

Communities in south-western Victoria such as Gellibrand, Kawarren, Beech Forest, and Forrest have faced a thick smoke blanket as the fire breached containment lines on Saturday. Some residents are choosing to stay and defend properties, but many have already evacuated. Emergency teams are coordinating relief efforts at safe points, providing water and guidance to those displaced. Key said, “We just don’t want anyone in those areas tomorrow with such dangerous conditions.”

Statewide fire warnings have intensified as temperatures soar to unprecedented highs. A total fire ban has been issued for Tuesday, closing all visitor sites in the Great Otway National Park and surrounding State Forests. The Bureau of Meteorology predicts north-west Victorian towns like Ouyen and Mildura could reach 49C, marking the most extreme heat since 2009. The combination of high temperatures and a forecast wind change is expected to exacerbate firefighting challenges, potentially driving fires further into residential zones.

Additional fires in Victoria include the Walwa fire and a blaze in the Alpine National Park moving toward Dargo. Northern areas along the Murray River, including Nariel Valley and McNamara Crossing, have also been issued evacuation notices as authorities attempt to contain rapidly spreading flames. In total, five districts—Central, Mallee, North Central, South West, and the Wimmera—face extreme fire dangers, with Wimmera approaching catastrophic levels.

Local volunteers, like Murphy, are assisting in relief and safety efforts, helping to ensure displaced residents know where to access shelter and resources. Emergency services emphasize the unpredictability of the situation, stressing the need for immediate compliance with evacuation directives. Officials have repeatedly highlighted the dangers posed by the extreme heatwave and strong winds, describing the combination as the worst firefighting scenario in recent history.

As conditions worsen, authorities continue to monitor the Otways fire closely, keeping residents informed through alerts and public announcements. The intensity and size of the fire underscore the growing challenges Victoria faces amid climate-driven extreme weather events. Residents are urged to remain vigilant, follow all safety instructions, and report emergencies promptly. Authorities continue to prioritize life over property, ensuring evacuation procedures are carried out efficiently.

The Otways fire has become a stark reminder of the ongoing risk that bushfires pose to Victorian communities. Experts warn that this season may see further fires due to unprecedented heat and dry conditions. Firefighters and emergency services remain on high alert, coordinating resources across the state to mitigate impacts and protect lives.

Victoria’s authorities have committed additional support to evacuation centres and are working closely with local councils to monitor the fire’s path. Emergency services stress that residents should prepare to relocate swiftly if conditions deteriorate further. The ongoing threat highlights the importance of early evacuation, community support, and proactive fire management.

As the situation develops, updates will continue to be provided to ensure all residents are informed. Communities in the Otways and surrounding areas are advised to stay connected with official channels, maintain access to essentials, and prioritise safety above all else. The combined effects of extreme heat and fire activity are expected to challenge emergency responses over the coming days.

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