UPDATE, 3.10PM: Both of the fires that were burning near Lake Burrumbeet have just been listed as "under control", as heavy rain continues to fall in the area.
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The Napoleons fire, which at one stage had special strike teams being sent towards it, has also been deemed as "safe". Heavy rain also helped the firefighting effort for that fire.
The wind is no longer blowing from the north and is tending from the south-west.
The temperature has also dropped to 28 degrees.
The fire has burnt about 100 hectares, according to the VicEmergency App.
The '"watch and act" area was also downgrade to "advice" level.
2.55PM: The escalating fire situation near Lake Burrumbeet has upgraded to the more serious grading of "watch and act".
People in the area are being told to stay close to a building where they can monitor conditions, as they can change suddenly.
People should continue to stay informed and monitor conditions.
The Watch & Act message is for Bo Peep, Brewster, Burrumbeet, Carngham, Ercildoune, Langi Kal Kal, Mena Park, Trawalla.
The message was issued around the same time as heavy rain and even hail started to fall in the area.
MEANWHILE, another fire has broken out near Napoleons, believed to have also been caused by a lightning strike.
The fire is burning near Colac-Ballarat Road. There is also reported heavy rain in the area.
EARLIER: Firefighters have rushed to at least two out-of-control grass fires burning near Lake Burrumbeet.
More than 20 firefighting units are fighting the blazes, which are believed to have started due to lightning strikes in the area.
One of the fires is near Modesty Lane in Brewster and the other is closer to Carngham-Trawalla Road.
The fire was first reported just before 2pm, when the temperature was about 34 degrees, with strong northerly winds.
However, there were reports of rain near the area as of about 2.30pm.
The CFA has issued an advice warning to people in the area.
There is currently no threat to you, but you should stay informed and monitor conditions.
What you should do:
- Keep the roads clear so emergency services can respond.
Impacts in your area:
- Smoke may be visible from nearby roads and communities.
This message was issued by Country Fire Authority.
The next update is expected by 15/01/2020 06:20 pm or as the situation changes.
For more information on preparing for grass fires visit: www.cfa.vic.gov.au/plan-prepare/grassfires-rural.
Health information:
- If you need medical advice for burns or exposure to smoke, seek medical advice or call Nurse on Call on 1300 606 024.
- Anyone experiencing wheezing, chest tightness and difficulty breathing should call Triple Zero (000).
Smoke Information:
- Smoke can affect people's health.
- People with heart or lung conditions (including asthma), children, pregnant women and older people are more sensitive to the effects of breathing in smoke.
- People with existing heart or lung conditions (including asthma) should follow the treatment plan advised by the doctor.
Use multiple sources to stay informed:
- www.emergency.vic.gov.au.
- VicEmergency Hotline - freecall 1800 226 226.
- VicEmergency app.
- Facebook or Twitter (#vicfires).
- Tune in to ABC Local Radio, commercial and designated community radio stations, or Sky News TV.
Accessibility:
The following services can help you, or someone you know, access information during an emergency.
- To access this information in other languages call the Translating and Interpreting Service on 131 450 (freecall) and ask them to call VicEmergency Hotline.
- If you are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech/communication impairment contact National Relay Service on 1800 555 677 and ask them to call the VicEmergency Hotline.
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