Light winds are failing to disperse smoke, with Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA) advising that smoke from bushfires continues to affect large parts of the state.
The air quality health category in Benalla and Wangaratta is currently moderate, however Wangaratta was rated UNHEALTHY SENSITIVE overnight due to smoke levels over the past 24 hours.
Smoke levels may decrease during the afternoon due to winds, and increase again into the night and following morning. Due to the build-up of smoke levels during this period the air quality rating is forecast to be UNHEALTHY SENSITIVE.
Wind conditions north of the divide will be light and variable. South of the divide, winds are expected to be generally from the South Easterly direction which is favourable for air quality in South and East Gippsland.
Smoke is no longer affecting greater Melbourne during the day, due to southerly winds. The Air quality health category should remain LOW during Thursday.
Everyone should take necessary precautions to protect their health. People are reminded to open their windows and ventilate their homes and businesses during periods of reduced smoke activity.
Visit epa.vic.gov.au/airwatch and emergency.vic.gov.au to keep up to date with air quality and emergency warnings in your area when planning your weekend activities.
Smoke and your health
North East regions, around Benalla, Wangaratta
When the air quality health category is UNHEALTHY SENSITIVE, people over 65, children 14 years and younger, pregnant women and those with existing heart or lung conditions should avoid prolonged or heavy physical activity altogether.
All areas experiencing smoky conditions
People over 65, children 14 years and younger, pregnant women and those with existing heart or lung conditions should reduce prolonged or heavy physical activity altogether.
Anyone with a heart or lung condition should take their medication as prescribed by their doctor.
People with asthma should follow their asthma management plan.
Anyone with concerns about their health should seek medical advice or call NURSE-ON-CALL on 1300 60 60 24.
Additional information
For information on bushfires and other emergencies, visit emergency.vic.gov.au
For information on air quality and other EPA Emergency related information, visit http://epa.vic.gov.au/our-work/emergency-information
For updates on EPA Emergency related information for the East Victoria Fires, visit http://epa.vic.gov.au/our-work/current-issues/east-victoria-fires
EPA has deployed incident air monitoring equipment to Benalla, Bunyip, Pakenham, Maffra, Bairnsdale, Woori Yallock and Warburton to monitor smoke impacts from the fires. Access the information from these air monitoring stations at epa.vic.gov.au/airwatch
Air quality updates are also available on http://twitter.com/EPA_Victoria
For information on smoke and your health, visit epa.vic.gov.au/smoke