Victoria Breathes Easier as Cool Change Eases Bushfire Threat.

Fire crews are still hard at work tackling a stubborn blaze in central Victoria after a day of intense fire danger. The fire near Creswick, which had earlier prompted an emergency warning, has now been downgraded to an advice message.

Residents in nearby areas, including Dean, Newlyn, Newlyn North, Springmount, Clarkes Hill, and Wattle Flat, have been urged to stay alert and keep a close eye on updates. For those needing assistance, a relief centre has been set up at the Doug Lindsay Reserve in Creswick.

Yesterday's extreme heat saw authorities across the state on high alert. Melbourne’s CBD hit 38.8°C around 6 p.m. before a welcome cool change swept through western Victoria.

Out in the Mallee region, Walpeup reached a scorching 47.1°C, marking its second-highest December temperature ever—and, at one point, it was among the hottest places on Earth. Meanwhile, Geelong and Ballarat recorded their own milestones for this time of year, hitting 42.3°C and 40.8°C respectively.

The heat also sparked multiple grass fires. One fire near the West Gate Bridge caused smoke to drift across the freeway, catching motorists’ attention. Another fire broke out near the Bay Trail in Port Melbourne, spreading to three separate areas. Nearly 50 firefighters, along with a water-bombing helicopter, worked to contain the blazes.

Thankfully, today brings some relief, with cooler temperatures across much of Victoria. Melbourne and Ballarat are expected to top out at 24°C, while Mildura, Shepparton, and Albury-Wodonga will hover around the low 30s.

But don’t pack away the sunscreen just yet—temperatures are set to climb again by Friday, with Melbourne forecast to hit 35°C. Stay safe and keep an eye on updates as conditions evolve!