South Morang, Doreen and Mernda residents, like the rest of Melburnians, will have overcast conditions on Friday, but unlike other areas, they will also see smoke.
But don’t be alarmed: the smoke will be from two planned burns being conducted as the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) and Parks Victoria.
The planned burns, 11 hectares and 8 hectares in size, will take place in the Plenty Gorge Park.
DELWP east metropolitan district manager Dan White said: “We expect the coming week will give us the right combination of weather and fuel conditions to carry out safe and effective burning to reduce bushfire risk.
“These burns are a critical part of an integrated plan to reduce bushfire risk to people, property and communities.
“These burns are carried out by experienced crews using local knowledge and under carefully managed conditions.”
The Department of Health says those experiencing any symptoms due to smoke exposure should seek medical advice or call Nurse-on-Call on 1300 60 60 24. For general health information about smoke, visit www.dhs.vic.gov.au/emergency/bushfire
For the latest information about burns, visit emergency.vic.gov.au, call 1800 240 667 or check the FireReady app.
For more detailed information on burn times, location and status go to vic.gov.au/plannedburn.
