Soaring Temperatures Spark New Otways Fire, Threatening Lives and Homes
As soaring temperatures grip the Otways, a significant fire has reignited, posing a serious threat to several communities. The Carlisle River fire, which originated two weeks ago, has breached containment lines, forcing residents to seek immediate refuge.
Current Situation of the Carlisle River Fire
The fire, located south-west of Colac, intensified on the afternoon of January 24, 2026, when temperatures soared to 39 degrees Celsius. Firefighters report that over 200 hectares have been consumed beyond the fire’s original footprint.
At 8 PM, the fire was advancing in a north-easterly direction from the junction of Carlisle River Road and Walls-Skinner Track toward Barongarook. Due to a shift in winds, authorities have cautioned residents in specific areas to take cover immediately.
Communities at Risk
- Barongarook
- Barongarook West
- Beech Forest
- Carlisle River
- Gellibrand
- Gerangamete
- Irrewillipe
- Kawarren
- Lovat
- Wimba
Residents west of these areas, particularly near Black Bridge Road, have been advised to evacuate immediately. A second bushfire has reportedly started east of the main fire, exacerbating the already critical situation as embers are now projecting up to five kilometers ahead.
Emergency Response and Community Support
An emergency relief center has been established at the Colac Showgrounds to assist displaced residents and their animals. Additional aid information can be accessed at the Colac Otway Performing Arts and Cultural Centre.
Fire Management Efforts
Forest Fire Management Victoria’s Chief Fire Officer, Chris Hardman, emphasized the active fire behavior observed in the area, including a column expanding to six kilometers high. He noted that with the dramatic weather changes, the fire is likely to escalate throughout the night.
Smoke from this blaze has spread across coastal Victoria, reaching areas as far as the Mornington Peninsula and Phillip Island. Overall, more than 60 firefighting units have been deployed, and prior to this flare-up, the blaze had already scorched over 5,000 hectares of national parkland over the past few weeks.
Impact of the Heatwave
Saturday marked a total fire ban day throughout Victoria, with additional bans announced for Northern Country, North Central, North East, and East Gippsland for Sunday. A persistent heatwave threatens to push temperatures even higher, with forecasts predicting a scorching 43 degrees Celsius in Melbourne and 48 in Mildura by Tuesday.
Amid these challenges, officials remain vigilant as other bushfires across Victoria could reignite under the intense heat conditions.
Public Safety and Arrests
In related news, police have arrested a 59-year-old man suspected of deliberately starting five fires in the Goulburn Valley region. This individual is set for questioning following incidents in Kaarimba and Bunbartha, highlighting ongoing concerns about fire safety amid such critical weather conditions.
As the community responds to this dire situation, the ongoing efforts of firefighters remain crucial in combating the impact of the Carlisle River fire and its hazardous spread.
