Tatong fire update 8.35pm - 18 Jan

Information on the Tatong fire.

The fire has burnt approximately 33,000 hectares.18/01/2007

Despite rain falling across the North East today, CFA and DSE are reminding residents to remain alert. Areas around the fire should still be considered dangerous.

Rain has caused roads to be slippery and the risk of falling trees and dislodged rocks in and around fire affected areas is significant. The rain extended across the majority of the fire area this afternoon and has hampered some fire crew operations.

Fuel reduction burns were planned for several areas but have been abandoned until conditions become more favourable. However, the rain has allowed a direct attack on the fire edge to be made, as well as significant work on asset protection. The main fire edge remains in the vicinity of Bunstons, just south of Wombat Hill.

Despite the rain, the fire threat for the weekend remains high, with hot dry winds and temperatures expected to reach the high 30s.

Current threat messages
Anyone travelling through areas affected by fire should be alert to the significant risk of falling trees and dislodged rocks.

Community meetings for Friday 19 January 2007

Tolmie at 9am in the Community Hall
Merrijig at 11am in the Community Hall

For information on road closures in the area please go to the Vic Roads website.

For information on fires in Victoria and general fire safety, please contact the Victorian Bushfire Information Line (VBIL) on freecall 1800 240 667. Callers who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech / communication impairment may call textphone/ telewriter (TTY) on 1800 122 969.

Information is also available at www.dse.vic.gov.au/fires

Tatong fire (JPG file) (jpg, 1.7Mb - large file)