Firefighting aircraft have begun arriving in Australia as authorities prepare for what is predicted to be a long and hot summer. The Bureau of Meteorology‘s latest Australian Seasonal Bushfire Outlook highlights significant bushfire risks across western and southwestern Victoria, including the Mornington Peninsula.
In response, firefighting authorities are assembling a robust fleet of aerial resources. This year, the fleet includes additional fixed-wing aircraft equipped with advanced intelligence-gathering capabilities to assist in monitoring and managing fire activity.
Returning to the skies are two Large Air Tankers, valued for their ability to operate from smaller regional airports, ensuring quick and efficient response times. Joining them are two Aircranes, heavy-lift helicopters renowned for their fire suppression capabilities, which are en route to Victoria following service in North America.
The aircraft will be strategically positioned across the state based on identified fire risks, with flexibility to relocate as conditions evolve. Firefighting agencies are urging communities to remain vigilant and prepare for the season ahead.
This story was originally reported by RPP FM and repurposed by STPL News with permission.
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