At least 17 people remain missing as 50 fires continue to rage across the state threatening the lives of those trapped in 24 isolated communities in East Gippsland.

Speaking in Bairnsdale on Thursday, Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews said he held serious fears for the 17 people missing and believes some of those unaccounted for may be stranded without access to power, or may have stayed in remote towns to defend their homes against the fires.

A caravan park in Mallacoota on Thursday morning. Credit:George Mills

“They may have been trying to defend their homes,’’ he said.

“That number may grow or indeed people may report to authorities. We do hold very significant fears for the welfare of anybody who is missing at this time.’’