Rain Helps Firefighters Contain Montrose Bushfire After Homes Destroyed

A sudden blaze in Melbourne's east burned 40 hectares, claiming one home and damaging another before rain and firefighting efforts slowed its spread.

The bushfire in Montrose, Melbourne, ignited Saturday afternoon and quickly spread due to hot, dry conditions and strong winds, burning through 40 hectares of land.
One home was destroyed, another was significantly damaged, and residents were forced to evacuate as the fire approached within 100 meters of properties.
Firefighters, supported by helicopters and bulldozers, worked overnight to contain the fire, which doubled in size after a sudden wind change late Saturday night.
Rainfall on Sunday morning provided crucial relief, helping to slow the fire's spread, though authorities cautioned residents to remain vigilant due to potential wind changes later in the day.
An evacuation center was set up at Kilsyth, sheltering 25 residents, while road closures and ongoing firefighting efforts continue as the fire remains under control but not fully extinguished.