Bushfire risk soars for Christmas, Boxing Day in multiple states

Residents in Victoria and South Australia have both been urged to be on alert today and on Boxing Day in particular.

Here’s what you need to know.

Multiple bushfire warnings are in place across the state, with a particular focus on the Grampians blaze.

The latest warning has advised that it is still not safe to return to Halls Gap.

The blaze there is not under control and is travelling in a northerly direction.

Other locales in the region, including Bellellen, Black Range, Great Western, Jallukar, Lake Fyans, Londonderry, Moyston, Rhymney, and Willaura North, were urged to monitor changing conditions and prepare to leave if necessary.

Meanwhile, a total fire ban has been imposed statewide for December 26, Boxing Day, as firefighters prepare for temperatures to climb into the 40s.

Strong winds are also expected.

It’s feared this could not only fuel the Grampians bushfire, but that new ones could also spring up.

Temperatures are forecast to hit 37 degrees in Adelaide today, while other parts of the state could reach 40.

The Country Fire Authority has not yet published any fire warnings, but total fire bans are in place in the state’s west and in the Mount Lofty ranges.

Fire danger will increase on Boxing Day, with South Australia also expecting strong, hot winds.