Otways fire grows as emergency warnings issued for Gellibrand and Carlisle River

Why the Otways fire matters

The otways fire in Victoria’s south-west has become a major public safety and health issue as it moves through thick bush and threatens towns. With emergency warnings in place for Carlisle River and Gellibrand, and smoke haze affecting Melbourne and Geelong, the incident illustrates how extreme heat and gusty winds can quickly escalate bushfires and impact communities, air quality and emergency services across the state.

Main developments and details

Fire behaviour and immediate threat

Authorities report the bushfire in the Otway Ranges broke containment lines amid gusty winds. The Carlisle River fire is now reported to be one kilometre from the community of Gellibrand and is spreading in an easterly direction. An Emergency Warning for Carlisle River and Gellibrand states it is “now too late to leave and anyone in the area needs to immediately take shelter.” The fire is one of seven major blazes burning across Victoria, with other significant fires near Longwood, Walwa, Mallacoota and the Wonnangatta Valley.

Health impacts and smoke

Smoke haze from the otways fire has blanketed Melbourne and prompted air quality alerts for Melbourne, Geelong and surrounding areas. Officials warned the haze could linger for hours and that “the smoke may aggravate existing heart and lung conditions and cause irritated eyes, coughing and wheezing.” Residents with respiratory or cardiac conditions were advised to take precautions and follow health alerts.

Firefighting conditions and official commentary

Forest Fire Management Victoria officials said the fire grew overnight under extreme heat and stiff winds. Chief Fire Officer Chris Hardman noted on ABC News Breakfast that strong winds and extreme heat contributed to containment lines being breached, adding that “even though people in Melbourne on the coast will be seeing milder conditions today, the winds at elevation could challenge firefighters in that area as well.” Authorities reported some easing in conditions but cautioned that the fire will continue to move.

Conclusion and what residents should do

The otways fire poses immediate danger to nearby communities and broader health risks from smoke. Residents in warned areas should follow emergency instructions—shelter if told and do not attempt to leave late—and those in affected cities should heed air quality alerts and limit outdoor exposure. Emergency services will continue to monitor and respond as conditions evolve; readers should stay tuned to official updates for changes to warnings and safety advice.