Smoke warning issued for Vic towns

Two towns in Victoria's Latrobe Valley have been warned about high levels of smoke, as bushfires continue to burn nearby.

Victorian authorities have issued a high-level bushfire smoke advisory for the Latrobe Valley as fires continue to burn.

EPA Victoria issued the alert for Morwell and Traralgon for Saturday night and Sunday as a fire burns in a mine at the nearby Hazelwood power station.

The EPA advises residents will see ongoing smoke impacts with visibility less than 10km due to high particle concentrations in the air.

Chief Health Officer Dr Rosemary Lester said excessive smoke levels can not only aggravate existing heart or lung conditions, but may also cause people to experience irritated eyes, coughing or wheezing.

"Everyone should avoid prolonged or heavy physical activity and keep informed about fire activity in their immediate area," Dr Lester said.

There were concerns earlier on Saturday about carbon monoxide levels in parts of Morwell, with residents warned to stay inside, but the concerns have subsided.

Smoke has affected many parts of the state in recent days, following last Sunday's bushfires which were the worst since Black Saturday.

A watch and act warning remains in place for the Goongerah fire in far east Gippsland, while an advice message is in place for the Kilmore fire which threatened communities north of Melbourne.


2 min read

Published

Updated

Source: AAP


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