The bushfire raging near Carlisle River continues to defy control efforts, yet emergency alerts in the area have been lowered to “watch and act” status.

Despite this downgrade, residents from Barongarook, Barongarook West, Carlisle River, Charleys Creek, Gellibrand, Kawarren, Wimba, and Lovat are advised that it remains unsafe to return to their homes.

The fire has already destroyed over 16 homes in the Otways region, prompting the evacuation of more than 1,100 homes earlier this week.

The wildfire has consumed more than 11,000 hectares so far.

Although the southern areas are experiencing milder weather conditions, with today’s temperatures expected to be close to average, the situation varies across the state.

In the north, temperatures remain well above average, with warnings lingering about the Walwa fire that has burned for weeks now.

Eight days of temperatures above 40 degrees have been predicted, with Victoria’s hottest ever day recorded on Tuesday.

Fire danger remains high to moderate across the state, but no fire bans are in place.

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