At least 28 people are missing after East Gippsland bushfires – and it could get WORSE as blazes are set to return tomorrow
- At least 28 people are missing and two confirmed dead in Victoria bushfires
- Premier Daniel Andrews said there are ‘grave fears’ for those unaccounted for
At least 28 people are missing as catastrophic bushfires continue to tear through Victoria’s east.
Premier Daniel Andrews said there were ‘significant concerns’ for unaccounted residents scattered across small communities in the region.
A state of disaster has been declared, with residents in the northeast Walwa told to get out before it’s too late.
Victoria Premier Daniel Andrews confirmed at least 28 people are missing following catastrophic bushfires in East Gippsland
Smoke rises from wildfires burning in East Gippsland, Victoria. A state of disaster was declared in the region on Thursday
‘We have grave fears for the safety and wellbeing of those 28 people who cannot be located,’ Mr Andrews told reporters on Friday.
‘Having said that, though, these numbers will move around. A number of people who were part of the original 17 (missing people) were located yesterday.’
It comes after Mr Andrews declared a state of disaster for East Gippsland on Thursday night.
These powers have never been used before and allow authorities to compel people to leave.
Residents in northeastern communities including Biggara, Tintaldra, Towong, Towong Upper, Walwa, Nariel Valley, Lucyvale, Berringama,Koetong, Shelley and Burrowye are being ordered to get out.
‘If you can leave, you must leave. That’s the only safe thing for you, your family and, indeed, for others who may be called to your assistance,’ the premier told reporters on Friday.
‘We cannot guarantee your safety.’
More than 780,000 hectares have been razed by about 50 fires burning in the state’s east and northeast.