A Visual Journey: The Transformation of Fire-Affected Victorian Towns Before and After Devastating Blazes

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Satellite images of bushfire-ravaged towns have captured the devastating extent of the damage caused by last week’s Victorian bushfire emergency.

Since last Wednesday, more than 410,000 hectares of Victorian bushland have been engulfed in flames, as extreme fire conditions ignited numerous fires across the region.

Among the ongoing blazes, two major fires continue to burn fiercely in Longwood and Walwa, posing significant challenges for firefighters and communities alike.

More than 1000 structures across Victoria have been damaged or destroyed by the fires, including 290 homes which have been reduced to ash and rubble.

The devastating fires turned deadly over the weekend, after authorities discovered the body of cattle farmer Max Hobson in the Longwood fire ground at Gobur.

Striking aerial imagery captured by Nearmap reveals the stark contrast in Natimuk and Harcourt, illustrating the devastating impact of the infernos on these towns. Before and after photos depict the scale of destruction wrought by the fires.

In Natimuk alone, the fires have resulted in the loss of at least 30 homes. Meanwhile, the Harcourt area has seen even greater devastation, with 54 homes succumbing to the flames.

Victoria Police are actively investigating the origins of these catastrophic fires, focusing on Ravenswood South and Walwa. Additionally, detectives specializing in arson and explosives are examining the circumstances surrounding the Longwood fire, seeking to determine any malicious intent.

Almost $200 million in federal and government support has been announced in recent days to support fire-affected communities.