Victorians urged to evacuate Otways as fire could spread toward over 1,000 homes

A fire in the Otways has burned about 9,400 hectares and authorities urged residents in more than 1,000 homes to evacuate before sunset as a heatwave and forecast winds raise the risk of further spread.

A large fire in the Otways has burned roughly 9,400 hectares and breached containment lines, prompting authorities to warn of possible further spread eastward. Emergency services reported multiple active major fires across Victoria and deployed firefighters and aircraft to respond. Officials said a severe heatwave and northerly winds are expected to raise fire danger again on Tuesday. Local towns including Gellibrand and nearby communities were the focus of evacuation messaging. Key facts: - The Otways fire has burned approximately 9,400 hectares and breached containment lines, officials reported. - Authorities urged residents in more than 1,000 homes in Gellibrand, Kawarren, Beech Forest, Forrest, Barongarook and surrounding areas to evacuate before sunset. - More than 300 firefighters and six aircraft were working on the incident, and there were six active major fires across the state. - A statewide total fire ban was issued for Tuesday and visitor sites in the Great Otway National Park and State Forests were closed ahead of forecast extreme heat and changing winds. Summary: Emergency services and state authorities warned that an approaching heatwave and forecast winds could cause the Otways fire to take a large run and threaten further communities. A total fire ban and park closures are in place and firefighting resources remain engaged as officials monitor conditions and advise of possible impacts in the coming day.