The Country Fire Authority says the heavy smoke drift over Ballarat and surrounding areas is coming from the fire in the Mount Buangor National Park, west of Ballarat.
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The CFA says the intensity of smoke from the fire has reduced since the peak on Thursday, likely indicating the temperature of the fire has reduced.
But, the lower temperature may mean smoke may not be travelling high and could have a greater ground level impact. An emergency warning has been issued for Chute and Mount Lonarch, west of Ballarat.
A bushfire at Bayindeen-Rocky Road at Mount Lonarch is out of control. It is travelling east towards Ampitheatre road.
VicEmergency advice says it is too late to leave the area safely so anyone in the area must take shelter.
Watch and Act alerts remain for Amphitheatre, Bayindeen, Ben Nevis, Chute, Elmhurst, Eversley, Glenlofty, Glenlogie, Glenpatrick, Glenshee, Green Hill Creek, Main Lead, Mount Cole, Mount Cole Creek, Mount Lonarch, Nowhere Creek and Raglan.
It is not safe to return to those locations, due to the fire between Raglan and Mount Cole that is not yet under control.
Fire crews have been able to slow the spread of fire but the situation can change at any time. People are asked to monitor conditions and be ready to respond.
How to reduce your smoke exposure:
The CFA advises:
- Everyone should minimise the time spent in smoky conditions whenever practical to do so.
- People over 65 years, children 14 years and younger, pregnant women and those with existing heart or lung conditions, should reduce prolonged or heavy physical activity. Where possible (and not under direct threat from fires), limit the time spent outdoors and when indoors, close windows and doors. If there is a break in smoky conditions, open the windows and air out your home.
- Anyone with a heart or lung condition should take their medication as prescribed. People with asthma should follow their personal asthma action plan, continue to take preventer medication as prescribed and keep reliever medication on hand.
- If you or anyone in your care is worried about symptoms, seek medical advice or call Nurse on Call on 1300 60 60 24.
- Anyone experiencing difficulty breathing or tightness in the chest should seek urgent medical assistance and call Triple Zero (000).
Affected by this story? There is help available. Phone Lifeline on 13 11 14.
