Extreme fire behaviour
Characteristics of extreme fire behaviour
- Fires will likely form large convection columns with winds strong enough to damage buildings and blow over trees restricting access.
- Occurs from fire behaviour in the surrounding landscape, including where it interacts with the hazard in close proximity to a building.
- Arises in high risk landscapes, with long fire runs, steep topography and vegetation in a mostly natural state.
- Influenced by fuel loads and drought conditions.
- Extreme ember attack will occur.
- Associated with weather as seen on Black Saturday.
- Any fire that starts and takes hold will be so intense that life safety may be seriously compromised.
Key consideration for planning decision making:
Places subject to extreme fire behaviour require careful consideration and decision making. The state’s bushfire planning policy at clause 13.02-1S and the need to prioritise life will mean many planning applications in these areas may not be appropriate. If a proposal does proceed strengthened resilience is often required.
Page last updated: 25/01/22