Vic: Fire breaks out in Melbourne's outer east
23 Feb 2009 3:42 PM
A fire has broken out in Melbourne's outer east that may threaten suburban homes.
The fire broke out early this afternoon in the Birds Land Reserve .. and fire authorities say a northerly wind is pushing it south towards several suburbs including Upwey .. Tecoma .. Belgrave Heights .. Belgrave South and Lysterfield.
The CFA's urged residents to decide early whether to defend their homes .. with many nervous residents who can see smoke in nearby areas such as Ferntree Gully deciding to evacuate.
Spot fires have been flaring up within various bushfires that have been contained around the state .. including the giant Murrindindi Complex.
The wind's expected to change to a south-westerly wind about five or six pm (AEDT) threatening other towns .. including communities around Warburton .. Yarra Junction .. Gladysdale .. Powelltown .. Woori Yallock and McMahons Creek.
With temperatures in the mid-30s .. a total fire ban's been declared in all but Victoria's southwestern region.
