Increased fire risk over Spring

The Seasonal Bushfire Outlook has been released for Spring, showing an increased fire risk for Geelong and the Surf Coast.

Lower rainfall and higher than average temperatures across Victoria have pushed El Nino conditions.

Emergency Management Commissioner Tim Wiebusch said fires could break out as early as October.

“Despite recent rainfall and flooding conditions in some parts of our state, the reality is our water catchments and water storages are very much at similar levels to last year,” he said.

Mr Wiebusch also urged residents to start cleaning up their properties ahead of the fire season.

“Clearing your gutters – whether it’s to prevent ember attack or flooding that might come through from a storm.”