Hume closed as warning area expands north - Leave Immediately and take shelter now warnings for areas south of Freeway
UPDATE 7.39pm, Thursday, January 8:
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A Take Shelter Now - Emergency Warning is being issued for Avenel, Dropmore, Highlands, Ruffy, Tarcombe, Upton Hill.
- There is a bushfire at Longwood that is not yet under control.
- The bushfire is currently travelling in a south-easterly direction, but conditions are changeable.
- This fire is threatening homes and lives.
- It is too late to leave the area safely so you must take shelter now.
- This Emergency Warning replaces the Emergency Warning issued at 4:47pm.
You are in danger and need to act immediately to survive.
The safest option is to take shelter indoors immediately. It is too late to leave.
What you should do:
A relief centre is open at the Seymour Sports and Aquatic Centre, Pollard Street Seymour.
Move indoors:
- Protect yourself by wearing long sleeves and trousers, made from pure cotton or wool. Wear leather boots.
- Bring your pets inside.
- Close all exterior doors, windows and vents and turn off cooling systems.
- You must take shelter before the fire arrives. The extreme heat is likely to kill you well before the flames reach you.
- Shelter in a room that has two exits, such as a door or window including one directly to the outside. It is important to be able to see outside so you know what is happening with the fire.
If your home catches on fire:
- Move away from the rooms that are on fire, closing doors behind you.
- As soon as the bushfire has passed the house, or conditions inside become unbearable, you need to get out and go to an area that has already been burnt. Staying inside a burning building will almost certainly end in death.
- It may still be too hot to remain outside, so you will need to seek shelter in another structure or last resort option.
If you cannot get indoors, last resort options include:
- Shelter in the middle of a large open area like a ploughed paddock, football oval or sporting reserve.
- Get into a large body of water like a dam, lake, river, the ocean or inground pool.
- Try to protect yourself from the fire's heat.
If you are travelling:
- If you are travelling, do not enter the warning area. Make a u-turn and travel to safety.
- If you are currently driving slow down and turn on your headlights. Smoke will make it difficult to see.
If you are caught in fire in your car:
- Park off the road behind a solid structure to block the fire's heat or pull over to cleared area.
- Try to position the car towards the approaching fire.
- Turn on your hazard lights and headlights.
- Close all windows.
- Turn off the air-conditioning and shut all the air vents.
- Turn your car engine off.
- Get down as low as possible below window level and cover up with a pure woollen blanket.
Impacts in your area:
- The following roads are closed:
- Hume Freeway between Violet Town and Avenel
- Creightons Creek Road and the Hume Freeway
- Longwood Ruffy Road and Gap Road
- Oak Valley Road and Gilberts Road
- Redgate Lane and Longwood Ruffy Road
- Upton Hill Road at the fire station
_____________________________________________________________________________________
UPDATE 7.37pm, Thursday, January 8:
A Leave Immediately - Emergency Warning is being issued for Avenel, Creightons Creek, Euroa, Locksley, Longwood, Longwood East, Old Longwood, Ruffy, Tarcombe, Upton Hill.
- There is a bushfire at Longwood that is not yet under control.
- The bushfire is travelling from Longwood in a easterly direction towards Crightons Creek.
- This Emergency Warning replaces the Emergency Warning issued at 3.25pm.
Leaving immediately is the safest option, before conditions become too dangerous.
Emergency services may not be able to help you if you decide to stay.
The Hume Freeway is currently closed between Violet Town and Avenel.
Avenel-Longwood Road and Clarkes Road are open.
What you should do:
There is a relief centre open at the Seymour Sports and Aquatic Centre, Pollard Street, Seymour.
Travel to:
- You should leave and head towards Seymour via Grimwade Road and Goulburn Valley Freeway.
- The home of family or friends that is away from the warning area.
- When you leave remember to take your pets, medications, mobile phone and charger.
In the car:
- If you are travelling, do not enter the area. Make a u-turn and travel to safety.
- Slow down and turn on your headlights. Smoke will make it difficult to see.
If you are unable to leave you should shelter indoors:
- Close all exterior doors, windows and vents. Turn off cooling systems.
- You must take shelter before the fire arrives. The extreme heat is likely to kill you well before the flames reach you.
- Shelter in a room that has two exits, such as a door or window including one directly to the outside. It is important to be able to see outside so you know what is happening with the fire.
- If your home catches on fire and the conditions inside become unbearable, you need to get out and go to an area that has already been burnt.
If you cannot get indoors, other last resort options include:
- Shelter in the middle of a large open area like a ploughed paddock, football oval or sporting reserve.
- Get into a large body of water like a dam, lake, river, the ocean or inground pool.
- Try to protect yourself from the fire's heat.
If you are caught in fire in your car:
- Park behind a solid structure to block the fire's heat or pull over to cleared area.
- Try to position the car towards the approaching fire.
- Turn on your hazard lights and headlights.
- Close all windows.
- Turn off the air-conditioning and shut all the air vents.
- Turn your car engine off.
- Get down as low as possible below window level and cover up with a pure woollen blanket.
Impacts in your area: The following roads are closed:
- Hume Freeway between Violet Town and Avenel
- Creightons Creek Road and Hume Freeway
- Longwood Ruffy Road and Gap Road
- Oak Valley Road and Gilberts Road
- Redgate Lane and Longwood Ruffy Road
- Upton Hill Road at the fire station
_____________________________________________________________________________________
UPDATE 6.49pm, Thursday, January 8:
A Watch and Act - Prepare to Leave message is being issued for Acheron, Alexandra, Burnt Bridge, Cathkin, Eildon, Ghin Ghin, Jamieson, Kevington, Killingworth, Koriella, Lake Eildon, Limestone, Molesworth, Murrindindi, Rubicon, Taggerty, Thornton, Torbreck Station, Whanregarwen, Yea.
- It is strongly recommended you Prepare to Leave.
- There is a bushfire at Longwood. The bushfire is not yet under control.
- The bushfire is travelling from Ruffy in a south-easterly direction towards Lake Eildon.
- The fire is expected to continue to travel south and east over night and into tomorrow.
- Weather conditions tomorrow Friday 9 January are expected to reach a Catastropic level and will see the fire move very fast.
Prepare to Leave immediately. Leave as soon as you are ready, as roads will become busy as people leave.
What you should do: To register that you are safe or for enquiries regarding residents in the fire area go online to Register Find Reunite https://register.redcross.org.au/
- Monitor the situation. Increased wind speed, change in wind direction, smoke or poor visibility can mean the situation is worsening.
- Protect yourself and your family.
- If you are not prepared, leave now. Don’t wait until it is too late - leave early.
- If you are away from home, do not return.
If you are leaving, pack:
- Cash
- Clothing for three days
- Medicine for three days
- Phone and chargers
- Toiletries
- Important documents
- Meaningful items and photos
- Pet essentials, including leash and carriers.
Check on your neighbours if it is safe.
Check the VicTraffic website for road closures.
Leave if the situation changes or you feel unsafe.
Where to go:
Relief centres are open at the following locations:
- Seymour and Aquatic Centre (Chittick Park) Pollard Street, Seymour
- Mansfield Youth Centre Erril Street, Mansfield
- Friends or family away from the fire.
- Consider roads may become busy closer to the time of impact.
Impacts in your area:
- The following roads are:
- Hume Freeway between Violet Town and Seymour
- Campbell Street and Clifton Street Euroa
- Faithfull Road and Hume Freeway
- Tarcombe Road and Hume Freeway
- Kanumbra Gobur Road and Maroondah Highway
- Highlands Road and Telegraph Road
_____________________________________________________________________________________
UPDATE 5.59pm, Thursday, January 8:
A Stay Near Shelter Watch and Act message is being issued for Euroa, Locksley, Longwood, Longwood East- north of the Hume Fwy.
- There is a grassfire at Longwood that is not yet under control.
- This grassfire is travelling in a north-westerly direction towards Locksley.
- Conditions are still dynamic, and it is important to monitor conditions.
Staying close to a building where you can shelter is the safest option, as conditions can change suddenly.
Continue to stay informed and monitor conditions.
What you should do:
- Monitor changes, including increased wind speed, change in wind direction, smoke or poor visibility that indicates the situation is changing.
- If you are away from home, do not return.
If the situation changes you will need to leave quickly. Plan to:
- Take your pets, medications, mobile phone and charger.
- Travel to the home of family or friends that are away from the warning area.
Emergency services may not be able to help you if you decide to stay.
For enquiries regarding residents in the fire area go on-line to "register - find-reunite: https:register.redcross.org.au
Impacts in your area: The following roads are closed:
- Hume Freeway from Violet Town to Seymour.
- Campbell Street and Clifton Street, Euroa
- Faithfull Road and Hume Freeway
- Tarcombe Road and Hume Freeway
- Kanumbra-Gobur Road and Maroondah Highway
- Highlands Road and Telegraph Road
_____________________________________________________________________________________
UPDATE 5.12pm, Thursday, January 8:
A Prepare to Leave Watch and Act message is being issued for Alexandra, Bonnie Doon, Devils River, Eildon, Fawcett, Howes Creek, Karralika Heights, Koriella, Lake Eildon, Maindample, Maintongoon, Mansfield, Snobs Creek, Taylor Bay, Thornton, Whanregarwen, Woodfield.
- It is strongly recommended you Prepare to Leave.
- There is a bushfire at Longwood. The bushfire is not yet under control.
- The bushfire is travelling from Longwood in a south-easterly direction towards Eildon.
Prepare to Leave immediately. Leave as soon as you are ready, as roads will become busy as people leave.
What you should do:
- Monitor the situation. Increased wind speed, change in wind direction, smoke or poor visibility can mean the situation is worsening.
- Protect yourself and your family.
- If you are not prepared, leave now. Don’t wait until it is too late - leave early.
- If you are away from home, do not return.
A relief centre is open at the Mansfield Youth Centre, Erril Street Mansfield.
If you are leaving, pack:
- Cash
- Clothing for three days
- Medicine for three days
- Phone and chargers
- Toiletries
- Important documents
- Meaningful items and photos
- Pet essentials, including leash and carriers.
Check on your neighbours if it is safe.
Check the VicTraffic website for road closures.
Leave if the situation changes or you feel unsafe.
Where to go:
- Friends or family away from the fire.
- Consider roads may become busy closer to the time of impact.
Impacts in your area:
- The following roads are closed:
- Hume Freeway between Violet Town and Avenel
- Creightons Creek Road and the Hume Freeway
- Longwood Ruffy Road and Gap Road
- Oak Valley Road and Gilberts Road
- Redgate Lane and Longwood Ruffy Road
- Upton Hill Road at the fire station
Check the VicTraffic website (www.traffic.transport.vic.gov.au) or call 13 11 70 for road closures.
UPDATE 4.55pm, Thursday, January 8:
A Leave Immediately Emergency Warning is being issued for Cathkin, Caveat, Dropmore, Fawcett, Ghin Ghin, Gobur, Highlands, Kanumbra, Kerrisdale, Killingworth, Koriella, Merton, Molesworth, Tarcombe, Terip Terip, Trawool, Whanregarwen, Whiteheads Creek, Woodfield, Yarck.
- There is a bushfire at Longwood that is not yet under control.
- The bushfire is expected to continue to extend in a south-easterly direction towards Lake Eildon.
This warning has not been downgraded, as the fire behaviour is expected to increase over the coming day and will affect communities south and east of the fire.
Leaving immediately is the safest option, before conditions become too dangerous.
Emergency services may not be able to help you if you decide to stay.
A Community meeting will be held today Thursday, January 8 at 6.00pm at:
Seymour Sports and Aquatics Centre (Chittick Park) Basketball staduim Pollard Street, SEYMOUR
What you should do:
Travel to:
- The home of family or friends that is away from the warning area.
- It is recommended that you head towards Seymour or Yea. Do not leave in a northerly direction towards Longwood.
- When you leave remember to take your pets, medications, mobile phone and charger.
In the car:
- If you are travelling, do not enter the area. Make a u-turn and travel to safety.
- Slow down and turn on your headlights. Smoke will make it difficult to see.
If you are unable to leave you should shelter indoors:
- Close all exterior doors, windows and vents. Turn off cooling systems.
- You must take shelter before the fire arrives. The extreme heat is likely to kill you well before the flames reach you.
- Shelter in a room that has two exits, such as a door or window including one directly to the outside. It is important to be able to see outside so you know what is happening with the fire.
- If your home catches on fire and the conditions inside become unbearable, you need to get out and go to an area that has already been burnt.
If you cannot get indoors, other last resort options include:
- Shelter in the middle of a large open area like a ploughed paddock, football oval or sporting reserve.
- Get into a large body of water like a dam, lake, river, the ocean or inground pool.
- Try to protect yourself from the fire's heat.
If you are caught in fire in your car:
- Park behind a solid structure to block the fire's heat or pull over to cleared area.
- Try to position the car towards the approaching fire.
- Turn on your hazard lights and headlights.
- Close all windows.
- Turn off the air-conditioning and shut all the air vents.
- Turn your car engine off.
- Get down as low as possible below window level and cover up with a pure woollen blanket.
Impacts in your area: The following roads are closed preventing entry to the fire area at:
- Hume Freeway between Violet Town and Avenel
- Creightons Creek Road and Hume Freeway
- Longwood Ruffy Road and Gap Road
- Oak Valley Road and Gilberts Road
- Redgate Lane and Longwood Ruffy Road
- Upton Hill Road at the fire station
There are Emergency Relief Centres open at:
- Seymour Sports and Aquatics Centre (Chittick Park) Pollard Street, SEYMOUR
- Mansfield Youth Centre Erril Street Mansfield
_____________________________________________________________________________________
UPDATE 4.47pm, Thursday, January 8:
A Take Shelter Now Emergency Warning is being issued for Avenel, Dropmore, Highlands, Ruffy, Tarcombe, Upton Hill.
- There is a bushfire at Longwood that is not yet under control.
- The bushfire is currently travelling in a south-easterly direction, but conditions are changeable.
- This fire is threatening homes and lives.
- It is too late to leave the area safely so you must take shelter now.
- This Emergency Warning replaces the Emergency Warning issued at 12.20pm.
You are in danger and need to act immediately to survive.
The safest option is to take shelter indoors immediately. It is too late to leave.
What you should do:
A relief centre is open at the Seymour Sports and Aquatic Centre, Pollard Street Seymour.
Move indoors:
- Protect yourself by wearing long sleeves and trousers, made from pure cotton or wool. Wear leather boots.
- Bring your pets inside.
- Close all exterior doors, windows and vents and turn off cooling systems.
- You must take shelter before the fire arrives. The extreme heat is likely to kill you well before the flames reach you.
- Shelter in a room that has two exits, such as a door or window including one directly to the outside. It is important to be able to see outside so you know what is happening with the fire.
If your home catches on fire:
- Move away from the rooms that are on fire, closing doors behind you.
- As soon as the bushfire has passed the house, or conditions inside become unbearable, you need to get out and go to an area that has already been burnt. Staying inside a burning building will almost certainly end in death.
- It may still be too hot to remain outside, so you will need to seek shelter in another structure or last resort option.
If you cannot get indoors, last resort options include:
- Shelter in the middle of a large open area like a ploughed paddock, football oval or sporting reserve.
- Get into a large body of water like a dam, lake, river, the ocean or inground pool.
- Try to protect yourself from the fire's heat.
If you are travelling:
- If you are travelling, do not enter the warning area. Make a u-turn and travel to safety.
- If you are currently driving slow down and turn on your headlights. Smoke will make it difficult to see.
If you are caught in fire in your car:
- Park off the road behind a solid structure to block the fire's heat or pull over to cleared area.
- Try to position the car towards the approaching fire.
- Turn on your hazard lights and headlights.
- Close all windows.
- Turn off the air-conditioning and shut all the air vents.
- Turn your car engine off.
- Get down as low as possible below window level and cover up with a pure woollen blanket.
Impacts in your area:
- The following roads are closed:
- Hume Freeway between Violet Town and Avenel
- Creightons Creek Road and the Hume Freeway
- Longwood Ruffy Road and Gap Road
- Oak Valley Road and Gilberts Road
- Redgate Lane and Longwood Ruffy Road
- Upton Hill Road at the fire station
_____________________________________________________________________________________
UPDATE 3.54pm, Thursday, January 8:
A Watch and Act - Leave Now message is being issued for Ancona, Barjarg, Boho South, Bonnie Doon, Creek Junction, Dry Creek, Euroa, Gobur, Gooram, Kanumbra, Kelvin View, Kithbrook, Lima East, Lima South, Maindample, Marraweeney, Merton, Sheans Creek, Strathbogie, Strathbogie North, Strathbogie South, Tallangallook, Too-rour, Woodfield.
- There is a bushfire at Longwood that is not yet under control.
- The bushfire is travelling from Longwood in a easterly direction towards Strathbogie State Forest and Bonnie Doon.
Don't wait, leaving now is the safest option - conditions may change and get worse very quickly. Emergency services may not be able to help you if you decide to stay.
What you should do:
- Monitor changes to the situation. Increased wind speed, change in wind direction, smoke or poor visibility can indicate the situation is changing.
- Protect yourself and your family.
- If you are away from home, do not return.
If the situation changes or you feel unsafe you should leave:
- Take your pets, medications, mobile phone and charger.
- Many people have died trying to leave at the last minute during fires.
- Travel to the home of family or friends that are away from the warning area.
Impacts in your area:
- The following roads are closed:
- Hume Freeway between Violet Town and Avenel
- Creightons Creek Road and the Hume Freeway
- Longwood Ruffy Road and Gap Road Oak Valley Road and Gilberts Road
- Redgate Lane and Longwood Ruffy
- Road Upton Hill Road at the fire station
_____________________________________________________________________________________
UPDATE 3.25pm, Thursday, January 8:
A Leave Immediately Emergency Warning is being issued for Avenel, Creightons Creek, Euroa, Locksley, Longwood, Longwood East, Old Longwood, Ruffy, Tarcombe, Upton Hill.
- There is a bushfire at Longwood that is not yet under control.
- The bushfire is travelling from Longwood in a easterly direction towards Crightons Creek.
Leaving immediately is the safest option, before conditions become too dangerous.
Emergency services may not be able to help you if you decide to stay.
The Hume Freeway is currently closed between Violet Town and Avenel.
Avenel-Longwood Road and Clarkes Road are open.
What you should do:
There is a relief centre open at the Seymour Sports and Aquatic Centre, Pollard Street, Seymour.
Travel to:
- You should leave and head towards Seymour via Grimwade Road and Goulburn Valley Freeway.
- The home of family or friends that is away from the warning area.
- When you leave remember to take your pets, medications, mobile phone and charger.
In the car:
- If you are travelling, do not enter the area. Make a u-turn and travel to safety.
- Slow down and turn on your headlights. Smoke will make it difficult to see.
If you are unable to leave you should shelter indoors:
- Close all exterior doors, windows and vents. Turn off cooling systems.
- You must take shelter before the fire arrives. The extreme heat is likely to kill you well before the flames reach you.
- Shelter in a room that has two exits, such as a door or window including one directly to the outside. It is important to be able to see outside so you know what is happening with the fire.
- If your home catches on fire and the conditions inside become unbearable, you need to get out and go to an area that has already been burnt.
If you cannot get indoors, other last resort options include:
- Shelter in the middle of a large open area like a ploughed paddock, football oval or sporting reserve.
- Get into a large body of water like a dam, lake, river, the ocean or inground pool.
- Try to protect yourself from the fire's heat.
If you are caught in fire in your car:
- Park behind a solid structure to block the fire's heat or pull over to cleared area.
- Try to position the car towards the approaching fire.
- Turn on your hazard lights and headlights.
- Close all windows.
- Turn off the air-conditioning and shut all the air vents.
- Turn your car engine off.
- Get down as low as possible below window level and cover up with a pure woollen blanket.
Impacts in your area: The following roads are closed:
- Hume Freeway between Violet Town and Avenel
- Creightons Creek Road and Hume Freeway
- Longwood Ruffy Road and Gap Road
- Oak Valley Road and Gilberts Road
- Redgate Lane and Longwood Ruffy Road
- Upton Hill Road at the fire station
_____________________________________________________________________________________
UPDATE 3.23pm, Thursday, January 8:
A Take Shelter Now Emergency Warning is being issued for Caveat, Creightons Creek, Dropmore, Euroa, Gobur, Gooram, Highlands, Kanumbra, Merton, Ruffy, Terip Terip.
- There is a bushfire at Longwood that is not yet under control.
- The bushfire is travelling from Longwood in a easterly direction towards Merton.
- This fire is threatening homes and lives.
- It is too late to leave the area safely so you must take shelter now.
You are in danger and need to act immediately to survive.
The safest option is to take shelter indoors immediately. It is too late to leave.
What you should do:
Move indoors:
- Protect yourself by wearing long sleeves and trousers, made from pure cotton or wool. Wear leather boots.
- Bring your pets inside.
- Close all exterior doors, windows and vents and turn off cooling systems.
- You must take shelter before the fire arrives. The extreme heat is likely to kill you well before the flames reach you.
- Shelter in a room that has two exits, such as a door or window including one directly to the outside. It is important to be able to see outside so you know what is happening with the fire.
If your home catches on fire:
- Move away from the rooms that are on fire, closing doors behind you.
- As soon as the bushfire has passed the house, or conditions inside become unbearable, you need to get out and go to an area that has already been burnt. Staying inside a burning building will almost certainly end in death.
- It may still be too hot to remain outside, so you will need to seek shelter in another structure or last resort option.
If you cannot get indoors, last resort options include:
- Shelter in the middle of a large open area like a ploughed paddock, football oval or sporting reserve.
- Get into a large body of water like a dam, lake, river, the ocean or inground pool.
- Try to protect yourself from the fire's heat.
If you are travelling:
- If you are travelling, do not enter the warning area. Make a u-turn and travel to safety.
- If you are currently driving slow down and turn on your headlights. Smoke will make it difficult to see.
If you are caught in fire in your car:
- Park off the road behind a solid structure to block the fire's heat or pull over to cleared area.
- Try to position the car towards the approaching fire.
- Turn on your hazard lights and headlights.
- Close all windows.
- Turn off the air-conditioning and shut all the air vents.
- Turn your car engine off.
- Get down as low as possible below window level and cover up with a pure woollen blanket.
Impacts in your area:
- The following roads are closed:
- Hume Freeway between Violet Town and Avenel
- Creightons Creek Road and the Hume Freeway
- Longwood Ruffy Road and Gap Road
- Oak Valley Road and Gilberts Road
- Redgate Lane and Longwood Ruffy Road
- Upton Hill Road at the fire station
_____________________________________________________________________________________
UPDATE 2.45pm, Thursday, January 8:
A Leave Immediately Emergency Warning is being issued for Avenel, Creightons Creek, Euroa, Gooram, Locksley, Longwood, Longwood East, Old Longwood, Ruffy, Tarcombe, Upton Hill.
- There is a bushfire at Longwood that is not yet under control.
- The bushfire is travelling from Longwood in a easterly direction towards Crightons Creek.
Leaving immediately is the safest option, before conditions become too dangerous.
Emergency services may not be able to help you if you decide to stay.
The Hume Fwy is currently closed between Violet Town and Avenel.
Avenel-Longwood Road and Clarkes Road are open.
What you should do:
There is a relief centre open at the Seymour Sports and Aquatic Centre, Pollard Street, Seymour.
Travel to:
- You should leave and head towards Seymour via Grimwade Rd and Goulburn Valley Fwy.
- The home of family or friends that is away from the warning area.
- When you leave remember to take your pets, medications, mobile phone and charger.
In the car:
- If you are travelling, do not enter the area. Make a u-turn and travel to safety.
- Slow down and turn on your headlights. Smoke will make it difficult to see.
If you are unable to leave you should shelter indoors:
- Close all exterior doors, windows and vents. Turn off cooling systems.
- You must take shelter before the fire arrives. The extreme heat is likely to kill you well before the flames reach you.
- Shelter in a room that has two exits, such as a door or window including one directly to the outside. It is important to be able to see outside so you know what is happening with the fire.
- If your home catches on fire and the conditions inside become unbearable, you need to get out and go to an area that has already been burnt.
If you cannot get indoors, other last resort options include:
- Shelter in the middle of a large open area like a ploughed paddock, football oval or sporting reserve.
- Get into a large body of water like a dam, lake, river, the ocean or inground pool.
- Try to protect yourself from the fire's heat.
If you are caught in fire in your car:
- Park behind a solid structure to block the fire's heat or pull over to cleared area.
- Try to position the car towards the approaching fire.
- Turn on your hazard lights and headlights.
- Close all windows.
- Turn off the air-conditioning and shut all the air vents.
- Turn your car engine off.
- Get down as low as possible below window level and cover up with a pure woollen blanket.
Impacts in your area: The following roads are closed:
- Hume Freeway between Violet Town and Avenel
- Creightons Creek Road and Hume Freeway
- Longwood Ruffy Road and Gap Road
- Oak Valley Road and Gilberts Road
- Redgate Lane and Longwood Ruffy Road
- Upton Hill Road at the fire station
_____________________________________________________________________________________
UPDATE 2.14pm, Thursday, January 8:
The fire has burnt through about 9230 hectares of land, and is yet to be under the control of attending emergency services.
There are 42 tankers currently on scene.
The fire is still travelling in a southerly direction.
There are three active emergency warnings in place, see below for more details.
UPDATE 12.57am, Thursday, January 8:
A Leave Immediately Emergency Warning is being issued for Cathkin, Caveat, Dropmore, Ghin Ghin, Gobur, Highlands, Killingworth, Ruffy, Terip Terip, Trawool, Whiteheads Creek, Yarck.
- There is a bushfire at Longwood that is not yet under control.
- The bushfire is expected to continue to extend in a southerly direction towards the Goulburn River.
This warning has not been downgraded, as the fire behaviour is expected to increase during the day and will affect communities south of the fire.
Leaving immediately is the safest option, before conditions become too dangerous.
Emergency services may not be able to help you if you decide to stay.
A Community meeting will be held today Thursday, January 8, 2026 at 6.00pm at:
Seymour Sports and Aquatics Centre (Chittick Park) Basketball staduim Pollard Street, SEYMOUR
What you should do:
Travel to:
- The home of family or friends that is away from the warning area.
- It is recommended that you head towards Seymour or Yea. Do not leave in a northerly direction towards Longwood.
- When you leave remember to take your pets, medications, mobile phone and charger.
In the car:
- If you are travelling, do not enter the area. Make a u-turn and travel to safety.
- Slow down and turn on your headlights. Smoke will make it difficult to see.
If you are unable to leave you should shelter indoors:
- Close all exterior doors, windows and vents. Turn off cooling systems.
- You must take shelter before the fire arrives. The extreme heat is likely to kill you well before the flames reach you.
- Shelter in a room that has two exits, such as a door or window including one directly to the outside. It is important to be able to see outside so you know what is happening with the fire.
- If your home catches on fire and the conditions inside become unbearable, you need to get out and go to an area that has already been burnt.
If you cannot get indoors, other last resort options include:
- Shelter in the middle of a large open area like a ploughed paddock, football oval or sporting reserve.
- Get into a large body of water like a dam, lake, river, the ocean or inground pool.
- Try to protect yourself from the fire's heat.
If you are caught in fire in your car:
- Park behind a solid structure to block the fire's heat or pull over to cleared area.
- Try to position the car towards the approaching fire.
- Turn on your hazard lights and headlights.
- Close all windows.
- Turn off the air-conditioning and shut all the air vents.
- Turn your car engine off.
- Get down as low as possible below window level and cover up with a pure woollen blanket.
Impacts in your area: The following roads are closed preventing entry to the fire area at:
- Hume Freeway between Violet Town and Avenel
- Creightons Creek Road and Hume Freeway
- Longwood Ruffy Road and Gap Road
- Oak Valley Road and Gilberts Road
- Redgate Lane and Longwood Ruffy Road
- Upton Hill Road at the fire station
There is an Emergency Relief Centre open at:
Seymour Sports and Aquatics Centre (Chittick Park)
Pollard Street, SEYMOUR.
_____________________________________________________________________________________
UPDATE 11.04am, Thursday, January 8:
A Take Shelter Now Emergency Warning is being issued for Avenel, Dropmore, Highlands, Ruffy, Tarcombe, Upton Hill.
- There is a bushfire at Longwood that is not yet under control.
- The bushfire is travelling from Longwood in a south-westerly direction towards Highlands Road.
- This fire is threatening homes and lives.
- It is too late to leave the area safely so you must take shelter now.
You are in danger and need to act immediately to survive.
The safest option is to take shelter indoors immediately. It is too late to leave.
What you should do:
A relief centre is open at the Seymour Sports and Aquatic Centre, Pollard Street Seymour.
Move indoors:
- Protect yourself by wearing long sleeves and trousers, made from pure cotton or wool. Wear leather boots.
- Bring your pets inside.
- Close all exterior doors, windows and vents and turn off cooling systems.
- You must take shelter before the fire arrives. The extreme heat is likely to kill you well before the flames reach you.
- Shelter in a room that has two exits, such as a door or window including one directly to the outside. It is important to be able to see outside so you know what is happening with the fire.
If your home catches on fire:
- Move away from the rooms that are on fire, closing doors behind you.
- As soon as the bushfire has passed the house, or conditions inside become unbearable, you need to get out and go to an area that has already been burnt. Staying inside a burning building will almost certainly end in death.
- It may still be too hot to remain outside, so you will need to seek shelter in another structure or last resort option.
If you cannot get indoors, last resort options include:
- Shelter in the middle of a large open area like a ploughed paddock, football oval or sporting reserve.
- Get into a large body of water like a dam, lake, river, the ocean or inground pool.
- Try to protect yourself from the fire's heat.
If you are travelling:
- If you are travelling, do not enter the warning area. Make a u-turn and travel to safety.
- If you are currently driving slow down and turn on your headlights. Smoke will make it difficult to see.
If you are caught in fire in your car:
- Park off the road behind a solid structure to block the fire's heat or pull over to cleared area.
- Try to position the car towards the approaching fire.
- Turn on your hazard lights and headlights.
- Close all windows.
- Turn off the air-conditioning and shut all the air vents.
- Turn your car engine off.
- Get down as low as possible below window level and cover up with a pure woollen blanket.
Impacts in your area:
- The following roads are closed:
- Hume Freeway between Violet Town and Avenel
- Creightons Creek Road and the Hume Freeway
- Longwood Ruffy Road and Gap Road
- Oak Valley Road and Gilberts Road
- Redgate Lane and Longwood Ruffy Road
- Upton Hill Road at the fire station
_____________________________________________________________________________________
UPDATE 11.04am, Thursday, January 8:
A Leave Immediately Emergency Warning is being issued for Avenel, Locksley, Longwood, Longwood East, Ruffy, Tarcombe, Upton Hill.
- There is a bushfire at Longwood that is not yet under control.
- The bushfire is travelling from Longwood in a westerly direction towards Locksley.
- This Emergency Warning replaces the Emergency Warning issued at 9pm on 7 January 2026.
Leaving immediately is the safest option, before conditions become too dangerous.
Emergency services may not be able to help you if you decide to stay.
The Hume Freeway is currently closed between Violet Town and Avenel.
Avenel-Longwood Road and Clarkes Road are open.
What you should do:
Travel to:
- The home of family or friends that is away from the warning area.
- You should leave and head towards Seymour.
- When you leave remember to take your pets, medications, mobile phone and charger.
In the car:
- If you are travelling, do not enter the area. Make a u-turn and travel to safety.
- Slow down and turn on your headlights. Smoke will make it difficult to see.
If you are unable to leave you should shelter indoors:
- Close all exterior doors, windows and vents. Turn off cooling systems.
- You must take shelter before the fire arrives. The extreme heat is likely to kill you well before the flames reach you.
- Shelter in a room that has two exits, such as a door or window including one directly to the outside. It is important to be able to see outside so you know what is happening with the fire.
- If your home catches on fire and the conditions inside become unbearable, you need to get out and go to an area that has already been burnt.
If you cannot get indoors, other last resort options include:
- Shelter in the middle of a large open area like a ploughed paddock, football oval or sporting reserve.
- Get into a large body of water like a dam, lake, river, the ocean or inground pool.
- Try to protect yourself from the fire's heat.
If you are caught in fire in your car:
- Park behind a solid structure to block the fire's heat or pull over to cleared area.
- Try to position the car towards the approaching fire.
- Turn on your hazard lights and headlights.
- Close all windows.
- Turn off the air-conditioning and shut all the air vents.
- Turn your car engine off.
- Get down as low as possible below window level and cover up with a pure woollen blanket.
Impacts in your area: The following roads are closed:
- Hume Freeway between Violet Town and Avenel
- Creightons Creek Road and Hume Freeway
- Longwood Ruffy Road and Gap Road
- Oak Valley Road and Gilberts Road
- Redgate Lane and Longwood Ruffy Road
- Upton Hill Road at the fire station
Use multiple sources to stay informed:
- www.emergency.vic.gov.au
- VicEmergency Hotline - freecall 1800 226 226.
- VicEmergency app
- Facebook or Twitter (#vicfires).
- Tune in to ABC Local Radio, commercial and designated community radio stations, or Sky News TV.
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Tallarook’s Crazy Cats Cattery offering free temporary accommodation for cats displaced by local fires
Limited availability.
Call 0481 005 509 or email enquiry@crazycatscattery.com.
_____________________________________________________________________________________
UPDATE 7.22am, Thursday, January 8:
A Leave Immediately - Emergency Warning is in place for Avenel, Caveat, Dropmore, Highlands, Ruffy, Tarcombe and Terip Terip.
There is a bushfire at Longwood that is not yet under control.
The bushfire is expected to continue to extend in a southerly direction towards Ruffy.
Residents in the SOUTH of a line drawn from Maggies Lane to Mount Monica to Tarcombe Road, Nolans Road, Buntings Hill Rd could be impacted.
This warning has not been downgraded, as the fire behaviour is expected to increase during the day and will affect communities south of the fire.
Leaving immediately is the safest option, before conditions become too dangerous.
Emergency services may not be able to help you if you decide to stay.
____________________________________________________________________________________
UPDATE 6.11am, Thursday, January 8:
A Leave Immediately - Emergency Warning is being issued for Locksley, Longwood, Longwood East, Ruffy, Tarcombe and Upton Hill.
- There is a bushfire at Longwood that is not yet under control.
- The bushfire is travelling from Longwood in a westerly direction towards Locksley.
- This Emergency Warning replaces the Emergency Warning issued at 9pm on 7 January 2026.
Leaving immediately is the safest option, before conditions become too dangerous.
Emergency services may not be able to help you if you decide to stay.
The Hume Freeway is currently closed between Violet Town and Avenel.
Avenel-Longwood Road and Clarkes Road are open.
What you should do:
Travel to:
- The home of family or friends that is away from the warning area.
- You should leave and head towards Seymour.
- When you leave remember to take your pets, medications, mobile phone and charger.
In the car:
- If you are travelling, do not enter the area. Make a u-turn and travel to safety.
- Slow down and turn on your headlights. Smoke will make it difficult to see.
If you are unable to leave you should shelter indoors:
- Close all exterior doors, windows and vents. Turn off cooling systems.
- You must take shelter before the fire arrives. The extreme heat is likely to kill you well before the flames reach you.
- Shelter in a room that has two exits, such as a door or window including one directly to the outside. It is important to be able to see outside so you know what is happening with the fire.
- If your home catches on fire and the conditions inside become unbearable, you need to get out and go to an area that has already been burnt.
If you cannot get indoors, other last resort options include:
- Shelter in the middle of a large open area like a ploughed paddock, football oval or sporting reserve.
- Get into a large body of water like a dam, lake, river, the ocean or inground pool.
- Try to protect yourself from the fire's heat.
If you are caught in fire in your car:
- Park behind a solid structure to block the fire's heat or pull over to cleared area.
- Try to position the car towards the approaching fire.
- Turn on your hazard lights and headlights.
- Close all windows.
- Turn off the air-conditioning and shut all the air vents.
- Turn your car engine off.
- Get down as low as possible below window level and cover up with a pure woollen blanket.
Impacts in your area: The following roads are closed:
- Hume Freeway between Violet Town and Avenel
- Creightons Creek Road and Hume Freeway
- Longwood Ruffy Road and Gap Road
- Oak Valley Road and Gilberts Road
- Redgate Lane and Longwood Ruffy Road
_____________________________________________________________________________________
UPDATE 6.09am, Thursday, January 8:
Overnight a Watch and Act - Stay Near Shelter warning has been issued for Locksley, Longwood- north of the Hume Freeway.
- There is a grassfire at Longwood that is not yet under control.
- This grassfire is travelling in a westerly direction towards Locksley.
- Conditions are still dynamic, and it is important to monitor conditions.
Staying close to a building where you can shelter is the safest option, as conditions can change suddenly.
Continue to stay informed and monitor conditions.
The Hume Fwy is closed in both directions between Violet Town and Seymour with traffic diversions in place.
UPDATE 6.55pm, Wednesday, January 7:
A Watch and Act - Prepare to Leave message is being issued for Caveat, Dropmore, Highlands, Terip Terip, Yarck.
There is a bushfire at Longwood. The bushfire is not yet under control.
The bushfire is travelling from Longwood in a south-easterly direction towards Caveat.
Embers are starting small fires ahead of the main fire.
Prepare to Leave. Have your items ready and your travel plans organised.
What you should do:
- Monitor the situation. Increased wind speed, change in wind direction, smoke or poor visibility can mean the situation is worsening.
- Protect yourself and your family.
- If you are not prepared, leave now. Don’t wait until it is too late - leave early.
- If you are away from home, do not return.
If you are leaving, pack:
- Cash
- Clothing for three days
- Medicine for three days
- Phone and chargers
- Toiletries
- Important documents
- Meaningful items and photos
- Pet essentials, including leash and carriers.
Check on your neighbours if it is safe.
Check the VicTraffic website for road closures.
Leave if the situation changes or you feel unsafe.
UPDATE 6.14pm, Wednesday, January 7:
A Leave Immediately Emergency Warning is being issued for Caveat, Dropmore, Ruffy, Tarcombe, Terip Terip.
There is a bushfire at Longwood that is not yet under control.
The bushfire is travelling from Hume Freeway in a south-easterly direction towards Ruffy.
residents in the SOUTH of a line drawn from Maggies Lane to Mount Monica to Tarcombe Road, Nolans Road, Buntings Hill Rd could be impacted anytime within the next 2 - 4 hours.
Leaving immediately is the safest option, before conditions become too dangerous.
Emergency services may not be able to help you if you decide to stay.
UPDATE 5.57pm, Wednesday, January 7:
A Take Shelter Now Emergency Warning is being issued for Avenel, Longwood, Longwood East, Ruffy, Tarcombe, Upton Hill.
- This warning is for the residents in the area NORTH of a line drawn from Maggies Lane and Mount Monica
- There is a bushfire at Longwood that is not yet under control.
- The bushfire is travelling from the Hume Freeway in a south-easterly direction towards Longwood-Ruffy Road.
- You must take shelter now.
- This Emergency Warning replaces the Emergency warning message issued at 3.30pm 7 January, 2026.
- If you have not already left, the time to safely evacuate has now passed. Take shelter indoors immediately. It is now too dangerous to leave.
You are in danger and need to act immediately to survive.
The safest option is to take shelter indoors immediately. It is too late to leave.
UPDATE 4.44pm, Wednesday, January 7:
A Watch and Act - Leave Now message is being issued for Ruffy, Tarcombe, Upton Hill, Longwood East.
There is a bushfire at Longwood that is not yet under control.
The bushfire is travelling from Oak Valley Road in a south-easterly direction towards Longwood-Ruffy Road.
Don't wait, leaving now is the safest option - conditions may change and get worse very quickly. Emergency services may not be able to help you if you decide to stay.
UPDATE 4pm, Wednesday, January 7: Forest Fire Management Victoria has bulldozers heading to the scene of the Longwood fire to try to create control lines.
So far the fire has burnt 128 hectares.
A State Control Centre spokesperson said firefighters were initially called to two grass fires burning on the side of the Hume Fwy at 2.29pm.
EARLIER: Residents are being warned it is too late to leave and to take shelter immediately as a bushfire in Longwood on Wednesday, January 7, is yet to be controlled.
The bushfire is currently travelling from the Hume Fwy in a south-easterly direction towards Longwood-Ruffy Rd.
The emergency warning issued at 3pm is for residents in Longwood, Longwood East, Ruffy, Tarcombe and Upton Hill.
Residents who have not already left should shelter indoors immediately, as it is too dangerous to leave now.
If you cannot get indoors, shelter in the middle of a large open area like a ploughed paddock, football oval or sporting reserve, or get into a large body of water like a dam, lake, river, or in ground pool.
Twenty-three vehicles were on scene, including 20 tankers and firefighting aircraft, at 3.45pm.
What you should do:
Move indoors:
- Protect yourself by wearing long sleeves and trousers, made from pure cotton or wool. Wear leather boots.
- Bring your pets inside.
- Close all exterior doors, windows and vents and turn off cooling systems.
- You must take shelter before the fire arrives. The extreme heat is likely to kill you well before the flames reach you.
- Shelter in a room that has two exits, such as a door or window including one directly to the outside. It is important to be able to see outside so you know what is happening with the fire.
If your home catches on fire:
- Move away from the rooms that are on fire, closing doors behind you.
- As soon as the bushfire has passed the house, or conditions inside become unbearable, you need to get out and go to an area that has already been burnt. Staying inside a burning building will almost certainly end in death.
- It may still be too hot to remain outside, so you will need to seek shelter in another structure or last resort option.
If you cannot get indoors, last resort options include:
- Shelter in the middle of a large open area like a ploughed paddock, football oval or sporting reserve.
- Get into a large body of water like a dam, lake, river, the ocean or inground pool.
- Try to protect yourself from the fire's heat.
If you are travelling:
- If you are travelling, do not enter the warning area. Make a u-turn and travel to safety.
- If you are currently driving slow down and turn on your headlights. Smoke will make it difficult to see.
If you are caught in fire in your car:
- Park off the road behind a solid structure to block the fire's heat or pull over to cleared area.
- Try to position the car towards the approaching fire.
- Turn on your hazard lights and headlights.
- Close all windows.
- Turn off the air-conditioning and shut all the air vents.
- Turn your car engine off.
- Get down as low as possible below window level and cover up with a pure woollen blanket.
Impacts in your area:
- Embers are being carried by the wind large distances ahead of the main fire and starting spot fires.
- Trees can fall across roads and cause dangerous driving conditions.
- Bushfires can generate extreme heat. Heat will kill you before the fire reaches you.
For more information, visit the VicEmergency website at https://tinyurl.com/2n7m42d2