Human remains have been discovered in the Australian state of Victoria as the country grapples with a devastating new wave of bushfires, authorities have confirmed.
Discovery in Longwood and Escalating Blazes
The grim discovery was made on Sunday, 11 January 2026, next to a vehicle in the town of Longwood, approximately 70 miles north of Melbourne. Police stated the victim has not yet been identified, with investigations ongoing amidst the dangerous fire conditions.
The fires, fuelled by a severe summer heatwave, have torn through more than 860,000 acres of bushland in Victoria since the middle of the week. The blazes have already destroyed more than 300 structures, including homes, and have left thousands of residents without power.
Worst Fires Since 'Black Summer'
Authorities have described the current situation as the most severe to hit southeastern Australia since the catastrophic Black Summer bushfires of 2019-2020. Those fires burned an area equivalent to the size of Turkey and resulted in the deaths of 33 people.
Victoria's Premier, Jacinta Allan, reported that more than 30 separate fires were actively burning across the state. In neighbouring New South Wales, which includes Sydney, several fires near the Victorian border were given the highest danger rating by the Rural Fire Service.
Weeks of Firefighting Ahead
The chief fire officer for the region warned that it could take firefighters weeks to bring the blazes under control. Mr Hardman told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, "These fires will not be contained before it gets hot, dry and windy again." This statement underscores the prolonged and challenging battle facing emergency services.
In response to the unfolding disaster, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has pledged that the federal government will provide emergency funding to residents impacted by the bushfires, offering a crucial financial lifeline for recovery efforts.
