Severe fire danger returns to NSW days after wild storms
Exhausted fire crews are bracing for the return of severe fire conditions as soaring temperatures return to large parts of NSW, just days after wild weather and hail downed power lines and damaged buildings.
NSW
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NSW residents have been urged not to be complacent as high temperatures return tomorrow, bringing severe fire danger to large parts of the state.
Just days after wild weather and hail downed power lines, trees and damaged buildings in Sydney, Wollongong and Canberra, hot, dry and windy weather returns on Thursday.
Temperatures are tipped to reach 43C in Penrith, 40C in Nowra on the South Coast, 41C in Campbelltown, 41C in Cessnock in the Hunter and 42C in Bulahdelah on the mid-north coast.
NSW RFS spokesman Ben Shepherd said low humidity and very strong north-westerly winds had crews bracing for a potentially dangerous day.
High temperatures and gusty winds have already increased fire danger in western inland areas of NSW today, he said.
“There is no doubt we are once again seeing fire risk elevated across NSW today, more or less starting far west and north west of the state, where the forecast is for severe fire danger and that will move across to the coast tomorrow,” he said.
On Thursday, severe and possible extreme fire danger ratings are expected on the south coast, Illawarra, Shoalhaven, Greater Sydney, Hunter and Central ranges.
“All fire grounds have received some rainfall and that has greatly reduced some fire activity but we might still see some fire grounds pick up and move tomorrow,” he said.
“It’s important to review your plans and ensure properties are well prepared, although the rain’s been most welcome, you can’t afford to be complacent because we’re by no means done and dusted.”
Mr Shepherd also warned residents there were still a few months of the fire season to go.
“No doubt it’s been an extra long and protracted season, they (firefighters) are tired, but what has been encouraging is the level of preparation by the community, ensuring properties are well prepared makes our job that much easier.”
More than 60 fires continued to burn across the state as of Tuesday night more than 1100 personnel working to slow the spread and strengthen containment lines ahead of the deteriorating weather.
However, the NSW RFS said today the huge Currowan Fire on the south coast, which had burned through close to 500,000ha over 53 days, has been officially contained.
Total fire bans are now in force for the south western, far western and north western fire areas where hot, dry and windy weather will make fires difficult to control.
The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a severe weather warning for damaging winds in parts of the Riverina, Snowy Mountains and far western NSW today. Winds averaging up to 65km/h with gusts of 90km/h are expected on Wednesday afternoon and into the evening.
The BOM warned Thursday’s damaging winds may extend to the southern tablelands, the central tablelands, the Illawarra and south coast.
Residents in affected area should keep an eye on the Fires Near Me App, ensure mobile phones are charged and have access to a battery powered radio to stay on top of RFS updates.
Total fire bans are now in force for the South Western, Far Western & North Western fire areas. Severe fire danger is forecast. Hot, dry & windy weather will make fires difficult to control. Important that you & your household know what to do if threatened by fire. #NSWRFS pic.twitter.com/YXrigwVejr
— NSW RFS (@NSWRFS) January 21, 2020
The Rural Fire Service advises that if you are in an area of Severe Fire Danger:
– If you plan to leave finalise your options and leave early on the day
– Only stay if your home is well prepared and you can actively defend it
– Prepare for the emotional, mental and physical impact of defending your property
– if in doubt, leave.
For information on preparing for bushfires go to www.rfs.nsw.gov.au.
Originally published as Severe fire danger returns to NSW days after wild storms