A bushfire originating from the Carlisle River in Gellibrand is advancing southward from where Carlisle River Road intersects with Walls-Skinner Track. This movement has prompted immediate concern from local authorities.

Firefighters are actively battling to bring this blaze under control. Meanwhile, residents are being urged to find refuge indoors as the situation escalates. The urgency of the situation is underscored by an emergency warning that has been issued for several areas including Beech Forest, Carlisle River, Charleys Creek, Dinmont, Ferguson, Gellibrand, Irrewillipe, Pile Siding, Weeaproinah, Wimba, and Wyelangta.

Vic Emergency has emphasized the severity of the threat, stating, “This fire is threatening homes and lives.” They have issued a stark warning to the residents, advising that “it is too late to leave the area safely, so you must take shelter now.”

The recommendation is to seek immediate shelter indoors, as leaving the area is no longer a viable option given the fire’s speed and proximity. Residents are advised to heed this advice promptly to ensure their safety.

“It is too late to leave the area safely so you must take shelter now.

“The safest option is to take shelter indoors immediately. It is too late to leave.”

Authorities urged residents to stay up-to-date with the latest information and follow the directions of emergency services as the weather keeps things unpredictable.

“The wind change is moving through at the moment and that will push this fire towards Barongarook,” chief fire officer Chris Hardman said.

“This fire is likely to continue to move through the night.”

Aircraft and emergency response crews will be operating in the area tonight.

There’s also been an emergency warning issued this afternoon for residents in multiple communities to leave immediately.

This includes Barongarook, Barongarook West, Carlisle River, Gellibrand, Irrewillipe, Irrewillipe East, Kawarren and Lovat.

A total fire ban is in place today for East Gippsland, West and South Gippsland, North East, Central, North Central, Northern Country, South West, Wimmera and Mallee.