Disaster Declared in Victoria Amid Ongoing Bushfire Crisis

Victoria, Australia, is grappling with a severe bushfire crisis, leading to a state of disaster declaration. A man in his sixties was found deceased near a fire zone, although his death was not directly caused by the fires. Fortunately, three missing individuals have been located safe. With temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius, over 300,000 hectares have been scorched, and significant property and livestock losses have been reported. Emergency services are on high alert as strong winds threaten to exacerbate the situation.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 10, 2026, 13:13 IST

Bushfire Crisis in Victoria

Victoria, Jan 10: A tragic incident has occurred as a man has lost his life during the severe bushfire crisis affecting Victoria, Australia. The state's Premier, Jacinta Allan, announced at a press briefing that the deceased, a man in his sixties, was discovered in his vehicle near Harcourt, located 110 kilometers northwest of Melbourne, on Friday afternoon.

While his death was not directly linked to the fires, it took place near an active fire zone, according to reports from local news sources.

Fortunately, three individuals who had been reported missing after their residence was engulfed by one of the most intense fires in the region near Longwood, 120 kilometers north of Melbourne, have been located unharmed.

Local firefighting agencies reported that three firefighters sustained injuries while combating the blazes.

As of Saturday morning, Premier Allan indicated that there were ten significant fires raging across Victoria, with an additional twenty being closely monitored by emergency services.

On Friday, a total of 200 fires were active throughout the state as temperatures soared above 40 degrees Celsius. Allan noted that authorities estimate over 300,000 hectares have been scorched, leaving 38,000 homes and businesses without electricity.

Although temperatures have decreased on Saturday, officials cautioned that strong winds could lead to unpredictable fire spread.

Emergency management officials reported that at least 120 structures have been lost to the flames across Victoria, alongside considerable losses in livestock.

In response to the crisis, the state government has declared a disaster in 19 regions, granting authorities the power to access private properties for firefighting efforts, manage movement, and enforce evacuations.