A wind change has now come through the Mildura district, with winds swinging around and a noticeable drop in temperature compared to the peak heat earlier today. The Bureau of Meteorology’s detailed forecast for Mildura shows the wind turning westerly then south-south-westerly through the evening, while temperatures ease from around 45°C late afternoon down into the low 30s later tonight.
Even with that slight cooling, conditions can still be dangerous and unpredictable — particularly with damaging wind gusts forecast across Victoria today. BoM advice warns of damaging gusts around 90km/h, with the potential for up to 110km/h in thunderstorms/elevated areas.
Jade Benham MP has also shared a video update urging locals to stay alert, keep checking official warnings, and be ready to act as conditions shift.
Boinka / Big Desert fire — WATCH & ACT (Prepare to Leave)
VicEmergency’s current warning remains Watch & Act – Prepare to Leave for Baring, Big Desert, Boinka, Linga, Patchewollock, Torrita, Underbool, Walpeup.
Latest official advice includes:
- The fire is south of Boinka and not yet under control.
- The warning notes the wind change is expected to push the fire towards the north-east, and conditions can become very dangerous and unpredictable.
- Firefighters have not been able to stop the fire.
- Relief centre: Blackburn Park, Farrell Street, Ouyen.
- Next update expected by 7:20pm or as conditions change.
If you’re in or near the Watch & Act area: prepare to leave early. Don’t wait until visibility drops, embers arrive, or roads become congested.
Colignan / Kulkyne / Hattah — ADVICE (Stay Informed)
For Colignan, Hattah and Kulkyne, the current level remains Advice – Stay Informed.
Official info at last update:
- The bushfire at Colignan is not yet under control.
- It is travelling from Brown Road, Colignan in a south-easterly direction towards Raak Track in Hattah-Kulkyne National Park.
- Smoke may be visible from nearby communities and roads.
- Next update expected by 9:30pm or as conditions change.
What locals should do right now
- Check VicEmergency frequently for the latest warning level, map changes, and updates.
- Keep a radio on (ABC Local Radio + local commercial/community stations) for emergency broadcasts.
- With gusty winds, be alert for trees down, debris and powerlines — and avoid travel if it’s not essential.
- Call 000 if you are in immediate danger.