The death toll from the devastating Victorian bushfires has risen rapidly through the night, with the latest confirmed total of 173 expected to increase throughout the day. Police have confirmed that 35 people have died at Kinglake, 26 at Strathewen and 22 in St Andrews, north of Melbourne.

Of particular concern at the moment is the Yea-Murrindindi fire, which has broken containment lines along the eastern side of Black Ridge. Communities have been warned of the risk this fire is presenting. Fire authorities are also urging residents around Healesville, Yarra Glen and Chum Creek, north-east of Melbourne, to watch for heavy ember attack from the bushfires. There are also threat alerts out for those living in nearby Toolangi.

Four-thousand firefighting crews from every state and territory are continuing to battle blazes across the state and news has now broken that firefighters from America will also be joining the cause..
The fires have destroyed more than 740 homes and are still threatening property in some areas, following a nightmare weekend.

Senior Victorian police will today reveal the details of a task force set up to investigate the cause these bushfires, with Premier John Brumby already announcing the formation of a Royal Commission into the fires, including the long-standing stay and defend or leave early strategy.

Tags: Bushfires, victoria