FRIDAY UPDATE: Light winds are failing to disperse smoke, with Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA) advising that smoke from bushfires continues to affect North East Victoria.
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 remain during the day due to stable conditions, and localised smoke impacts may be seen in low lying areas.
Wind conditions north of the divide will be light. South of the divide, winds are expected to move smoke away from East and South Gippsland and the Latrobe Valley.
The Eastern suburbs of Melbourne and other areas to the West of the ranges may see localised smoke impact due to variable and light winds. Winds are expected to move smoke away from populated areas until Saturday. The Air quality health category should remain LOW during Friday.
WEEKEND UPDATE: There are northerly winds predicted over the weekend in the Gippsland region. This may move smoke from fires in the ranges towards Gippsland. There may be some smoke impacts in Bairnsdale and Maffra. EPA will continue to monitor air quality at these locations.
Winds will continue to be light overnight, which may mean that smoke may linger. Stronger westerly winds are predicted on Monday which will move smoke away from these areas.
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 www.emergency.vic.gov.au
For information on air quality and other EPA Emergency related information, visit https://www.epa.vic.gov.au/our-work/emergency-information
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 www.epa.vic.gov.au/airwatch
Air quality updates are also available on twitter.com/EPA_Victoria
For information on smoke and your health, visit www.epa.vic.gov.au/your-environment/air/smoke