Residents have been urged to “leave immediately” amid an out of control bushfire in Victoria’s southwest.
Victoria Emergency issued the warning just after 2am on Thursday for those in Big Cord, Grampians, Mirranatwa and Jimmy Creek.
The alert stated a bushfire at Grampians National Park on Yarram Gap Road is not under control.
The fire is crossing Henham Track near the Victoria Valley Road while a private property in the Mirrantwa has been impacted.
Grampians Road has been closed from Silverband Road to the southern Victoria Valley Road intersection, while Victoria Valley Road has been closed at the Victoria Point Intersection.
Yarram Gap Road has also been closed from Grampians Road to Moyston-Dunkeld Road.
Residents have been urged to leave now.
“Leaving immediately is the safest option, before conditions become too dangerous,” the alert stated.
“Emergency services may not be able to help you if you decide to stay.”
Residents have been urged to ‘leave immediately’. Picture: Victoria Emergency.
People have been encouraged to leave via Victoria Valley Road towards Dunkeld, where a relief centre has been opened at 14 Sterling Place.
“If in attendance and require assistance from the Southern Grampians Shire please phone the number provided on site. Victoria Police can also be contacted via the Hamilton Police 24 hour number posted onsite,” the Victoria Emergency alert stated.
The alert also reminded people to ensure they take pets, medications, phones and chargers with them.
Those unable to leave have been urged to stay inside and close all doors, windows, 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,” the alert stated.
“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.”
Victoria Emergency recommended sheltering in the middle of a large open area such as a ploughed paddock, football oval or sporting reserve for those unable to get inside.
Entering a large body of water, including a dam, lake, river, the ocean or in-ground pool are other options.