Horsham Bushfire: Evacuation Warnings as Grassfire Threatens Regional Centre
Horsham, 9 January 2026 – An out-of-control grassfire west of Horsham has prompted urgent evacuation and shelter-in-place warnings for several towns in western Victoria. Authorities have issued a Watch and Act alert for Horsham and surrounding areas, with a wind change expected to make the fire more erratic and shift it eastward. Residents are urged to monitor conditions closely amid extreme heat and strong winds.
Fire Spread and Warnings
The grassfire, originating near Grass Flat and Natimuk, is burning uncontrollably and has expanded to cover approximately 20,755 hectares. A Watch and Act warning is in place for Horsham, Bungalally, Dooen, Noradjuha, Nurrabiel, Riverside, and Wonwondah, advising residents to monitor conditions and be ready to act. Emergency services report that a wind change within the next hour could cause the fire to become more unpredictable, moving in an easterly direction towards Natimuk and potentially impacting private property.
Immediate evacuation orders have been issued for Haven, Lower Norton, McKenzie Creek, Noradjuha, Pimpinio, Quantong, Vectis, Vectis East, and Vectis South. Residents in Arapiles, Duchembegarra, Grass Flat, Mitre, Natimuk, and Tooan have been instructed to shelter indoors immediately, as it is now too late to leave safely. Authorities warn that spot fires and ember attacks are occurring ahead of the main fire front.
A relief centre has been established at the Horsham Senior Citizens Centre, located at 17 Roberts Avenue, Horsham, for those evacuated. Pets must be contained or on a lead. Road closures include the Wimmera Highway between Nhill-Harrow Road and the Horsham Noradjuha Road, with all traffic diverted to Nhill. VicTraffic and the VicEmergency website provide updates on closures.
Current Conditions and Impacts
Temperatures in Horsham have reached 42°C, with northwesterly winds gusting up to 93 km/h fuelling the blaze. Reports indicate embers have begun falling in Horsham, heightening concerns. Powercor is working to restore power, with more than 35,000 households in Victoria currently without electricity due to the fires.
The Country Fire Authority (CFA) has described the situation as rapidly developing, with the fire growing quickly due to strong winds. Additional fires are burning in the Wimmera-Mallee region, including one 10 kilometres south of Boinka, prompting watch and act messages for Big Desert, Boinka, Linga, and Underbool.
Major banks, including ANZ and NAB, have announced disaster relief packages for affected customers, offering short-term payment relief on loans, fee waivers, and access to emergency funds or temporary accommodation for those with home and contents insurance.
Key Facts
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Fire Location | West of Horsham, originating near Grass Flat and Natimuk |
| Size | 20,755 hectares |
| Warnings | Watch and Act for Horsham and surrounds; Evacuate immediately for specific towns; Shelter in place for others |
| Weather | 42°C in Horsham, winds up to 93 km/h |
| Power Outages | More than 35,000 without power in Victoria |
| Relief Centre | Horsham Senior Citizens Centre, 17 Roberts Avenue |
| Control Authority | Victorian Country Fire Authority (CFA) |
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I’m in an affected area?
Follow the latest VicEmergency warnings. If instructed to evacuate, leave immediately and head to the designated relief centre. If sheltering in place, stay indoors, close all doors and windows, and turn off air conditioning. Monitor VicEmergency app, website, or hotline (1800 226 226) for updates.
Are there road closures?
Yes, the Wimmera Highway between Nhill-Harrow Road and Horsham Noradjuha Road is closed, with traffic diverted to Nhill. Check VicTraffic for more details.
How can I get help with power outages or financial relief?
Contact Powercor for power restoration updates. Banks like ANZ and NAB offer relief packages, including loan deferrals and insurance support. Visit their websites or contact them directly.