Updated:
LIVE FIRE EMERGENCY UPDATE (12 Jan, 2026): This article has been updated to reflect the ongoing state of disaster in Victoria. More than 1,500 parks are currently closed, and major rail disruptions are impacting travel across the state. Please check the latest alerts below before attempting to travel.
If you’re currently enjoying a summer getaway in Victoria, we’ve got a critical safety update that requires immediate attention. Following the catastrophic fire danger forecast for last Friday, the situation has escalated into a widespread emergency. A State of Disaster was declared on 10 January for 18 Local Government Areas as significant bushfires continue to burn across the state. Authorities are urging all travellers to avoid non-essential travel to regional areas and to leave fire-affected zones immediately if it is safe to do so.
Ongoing State of Disaster: 1,500+ parks now closed
The 2026 Victorian fires season has become the most dangerous period for travellers since Black Summer. As of Monday 12 January, the threat has moved beyond the initial forecast districts. More than 1,500 parks and public land reserves have been closed to protect the public. This includes mandatory evacuations of all campsites in the affected zones.
Major fires near Longwood and Mount Lawson remain extremely dangerous, with potential impact areas including Euroa, Marysville, Alexandra, and surrounds. If you are anywhere near these regions, you must activate your bushfire survival plan and monitor the VicEmergency app constantly.
Travel Alert: V/Line suspensions and road delays
It’s not just the parks that are off-limits; the very infrastructure we use to get home is under extreme stress. Major rail lines have been suspended, and regional roads are facing unpredictable closures due to fire activity and extreme heat.
| Service/District | Current Status (12 Jan) | Traveller Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Bendigo, Swan Hill & Echuca Lines | Suspended | No trains running; limited coach replacements due to fire damage. |
| Albury & Seymour Lines | Suspended | Major disruptions due to Mount Lawson and Longwood fires. |
| Alpine National Park | Closed | Talbotville, Eaglevale, and Wonnangatta Valley are off-limits. |
| Great Otway National Park | Partial Closures | Apollo Bay to Lavers Hill areas impacted; sites closed until at least 13 Jan. |
Finding safety for your family and pets
We know how distressing it is to have your holiday cut short, but leaving early is the only way to ensure your family’s safety. For those relocating with pets, please be aware that V/Line replacement coaches do not allow pets on board. If you are relying on public transport to evacuate, you will need to make alternative arrangements for your animals.
Safe haven options like Lakes and Craters Holiday Park or BIG4 Windmill Holiday Park remain great alternatives if you can reach them safely, but always call ahead to ensure they haven’t been added to a new watch zone.
⚠️ CAUTION: A State of Disaster gives the government significant powers to manage evacuations and resources. Please follow all directions from emergency personnel immediately—your life may depend on it.
Your Emergency Toolkit
- VicEmergency App: Download for iOS and Android.
- V/Line Updates: Check the V/Line heat and disruption pages daily.
- Parks Victoria: Monitor the Change of Conditions page for reopening dates.
The Verdict: Stay safe, stay away
The 2026 Victorian fires are a serious and ongoing threat. While it’s heartbreaking to see our summer holidays disrupted, the safety of our community must come first. If you aren’t already in a safe zone, make it your priority to get to one today. There will be other summers and other trips, but for now, the best thing you can do is stay informed and stay out of harm’s way. Safe travels to everyone heading home.
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