Bushfires active in Victoria while Queensland braces for more flooding

Emergency-level fires are reported near Mount Lawson and Longwood in Victoria as an intense heatwave continues, and northwest Queensland faces further heavy rain from a tropical low with a moderate chance of cyclone development by Friday.

Emergency-level bushfires are active in parts of Victoria as the state endures a major heatwave. Authorities reported out-of-control fires near Mount Lawson (on the NSW–Victoria border) and at Longwood, and total fire bans are in place for several regions. The Bureau of Meteorology says the heatwave is affecting South Australia, Victoria and parts of Tasmania and is expected to intensify on Friday. In northwest Queensland, flood-affected communities are preparing for additional heavy rain as a monsoon trough deepens and a tropical low forms north of Cairns. Key facts: - Emergency-level fires have been reported near Mount Lawson and Longwood in Victoria; authorities say more than 1,000 hectares have burned and there have been no reported injuries or structural damage so far. - Total fire bans are in place across multiple Victorian regions, and officials warned conditions could worsen with hotter forecasts on Friday. - In northwest Queensland, floodwaters are still present after heavy falls; a tropical low off Cooktown has been assessed as having about a 40% chance of developing into a cyclone by Friday, and hardship assistance and federal funding have been announced for affected communities. Summary: Officials report active fires in Victoria and warn that heat and fire danger are likely to intensify toward Friday. In Queensland, authorities say further heavy rain and possible cyclone development could bring renewed flooding to already impacted areas, and some assistance measures have been activated. Undetermined at this time.