NSW Health warns of poor air quality from hazard reduction burns in Blue Mountains and western Sydney

NSW Health is urging residents across Sydney and the Blue Mountains to take health precautions as smoke from hazard reduction burns are expected to impact air quality today and into the weekend.

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - NewsWire Photos APRIL 11 , 2025: Smoke Haze covers Sydney as viewed from Dudley page Reserve in Vaucluse. Picture: NewsWire / John Appleyard

NSW Health is urging residents across Sydney and the Blue Mountains to take health precautions as smoke from hazard reduction burns are expected to impact air quality today and into the weekend.

The smoke, coming from controlled burns in and around the Blue Mountains, may particularly affect communities in Western Sydney and the mountains region.

NSW Health’s Director of Environmental Health, Dr Stephen Conaty, warned that the smoke can trigger a range of health issues, especially for vulnerable groups.

“Smoke particles in the air can irritate the eyes and airways, and for most people, this causes temporary symptoms like a cough and a sore throat,” he said.

“However, smoke particles that get into the lungs can worsen pre-existing health conditions like angina, asthma, emphysema, and diabetes, potentially causing serious illness.”

Smoke Haze covers Sydney as viewed from Dudley page Reserve in Vaucluse. Picture: NewsWire / John Appleyard

“In particular we’re urging people to take precautions with infants, young children, and people over 65 years of age who may be more sensitive to the effects of smoke.”

Residents are advised to stay indoors where possible, keep windows and doors closed, and avoid strenuous outdoor activity during periods of high smoke concentration. Those with chronic conditions should follow their action plans and have medications on hand.

People can check real-time air quality and health advice through the NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment’s Air Quality Index (AQI) at https://www.dpie.nsw.gov.au/.

Originally published as NSW Health warns of poor air quality from hazard reduction burns in Blue Mountains and western Sydney