Emergency alerts issued for several blazes with weather conditions expected to fan flamesLives and homes remained under threat as fires near Victorian towns worsened, with weather conditions expected to fan the flames. Bushfires were also threatening homes south of Gillingill, near the Victorian town of Timbarra, in East Gippsland. Firefighters have been unable to stop the fire, which has crossed containment lines, and authorities warned residents to leave while they still could. The fire alert for Geeveston, Port Huon and Cairns Bay was downgraded but residents were urged to leave while they still could. The fires have claimed three homes and a near-century-old trapper’s hut, and damaged the popular Tahune Airwalk tourist attraction.

Source: The Guardian February 03, 2019 03:51 UTC