Fire Weather Index
The Fire Weather Index (FWI) is calculated daily (at 12:02 pm EST) by FWI Calc and is based on the noon air temperature, relative humidity, wind speed and 24 hour rainfall.
The FWI provides a general index of fire danger and is the basis for determining the Fire Danger Rating (FDR).
Fire Danger Rating
The FDR is an assessment of the potential fire behaviour, the difficulty of suppressing a fire, and the potential impact on the community should a bushfire occur on a given day.
The information presented here is advisory only. The official Fire Danger Ratings for all Victorian forecast districts are calculated by the ABOM between September to April.
 |
|
Fire Danger Ratings Explained
Code Red
- These are the worst conditions for a bush or grass fire.
- Homes are not designed or constructed to withstand fires in these conditions.
- The safest place to be is away from high risk bushfire areas.
Extreme
- Expect extremely hot, dry and windy conditions.
- If a fire starts and takes hold, it will be uncontrollable, unpredictable and fast moving. Spot fires will start, move quickly and come from many directions.
- Homes that are situated and constructed or modified to withstand a bushfire, that are well prepared and actively defended, may provide safety.
- You must be physically and mentally prepared to defend in these conditions.
Severe
- Expect hot, dry and possibly windy conditions.
- If a fire starts and takes hold, it may be uncontrollable.
- Well prepared homes that are actively defended can provide safety.
- You must be physically and mentally prepared to defend in these conditions.
Very High - High - Low to Moderate
- If a fire starts, it can most likely be controlled in these conditions and homes can provide safety.
- Be aware of how fires can start and minimise the risk.
- Controlled burning off may occur in these conditions if it is safe - check to see if permits apply.
More information: CFA Fire Danger Rating brochure (PDF 80 kb).
[ back ]