Craigieburn train services resume after fire

Train services have resumed on the Craigieburn line after being suspended due to a grass fire.

Services were suspended for about an hour between Broadmeadows and Craigieburn before the fire was brought under control at 1.20pm.

A spokesman from the State Control Centre said trains were now passing slowly.

The Country Fire Authority advised residents at 12.40pm that there was no threat to communities but urged people to stay informed.

Another update will be issued at 4pm.

The CFA has issued total fire bans for all areas of the state except East Gippsland for Wednesday.

High winds and heat are predicted to push fire danger ratings to “extreme” and “severe” across Victoria.

CFA chief officer Joe Buffone said strong and gusty northwesterly winds, peaking at up to 100km/h, were forecast before a gusty change in the afternoon in the west and central areas.

“We are expecting strong winds before a change in the late afternoon and possible dry thunderstorms,” he said.

No fire can be lit in the open air or be allowed to remain alight in the open until 11.59pm on Wednesday night.

Police have activated Operation Firesetter in high-risk areas and will conduct patrols to prevent bushfire arson and reckless fires.

The community can help by reporting any reckless or suspicious behaviour by calling Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or by visiting www.crimestoppers.com.au.

 

Fire information can be found from:

ABC local radio, commercial and designated radio stations or Sky News

The FireReady App – which sends push notifications for incidents, Total Fire Bans and Fire Danger Ratings

www.emergency.vic.gov.au

Victorian Bushfire Information Line 1800 240 667

CFA and Vic Emergency Twitter and Facebook accounts.