Bushfires NT lift fire danger period for Alice Springs and Barkly due to incoming ‘wet’ December
The fire danger period has been lifted for the Alice Springs and the Barkly region, but the chief fire control officer says residents shouldn’t get complacent. Find out why.
Alice Springs
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A forecast for a “wet December” is behind a decision to lilift the fire danger period for the Alice Springs and Barkly regions, but the firey’s top dog is urging residents to “remain alert”.
The fire danger period for the two regions will be lifted on Saturday by Bushfires NT, but chief fire control officer Tony Fuller said residents should be prepared for when it’s re-implemented.
“While we are lifting the Fire Danger Period for now, residents should remain alert as we anticipate an increased fire risk early in 2025. It’s essential that residents take this time to prepare for potential fire danger in the months ahead,” he said.
The decision to lift the fire danger period was made after the Bureau of Meteorology forecast a “wet December” and the Australasian Fire and Emergency Services Authority Council released its seasonal bushfire outlook.
On Tuesday, the Barkly region was put on flood watch due to heavy rainfall in the region.
As of Friday, the region was still under a flood alert, which was at an “advice” level, with residents not in immediate danger, but urged to stay up to date in case the situation changes.
Earlier in November, a “firenado” occurred during a 500ha bushfire south of Alice Springs, which a coalition effort of volunteers, contractors, and firey’s extinguished.
In the wake of the updated outlook, Bushfires NT said contracted loaders will be stood down, alongside the belly tank helicopter in Alice Springs.
Mr Fuller despite the scaled danger period, ongoing preparation was essential.
“Now is the time to act. Clear any flammable material, check your fire breaks, and make sure your Bushfire Survival Plan is up to date. Don’t wait until a fire is approaching to start planning,” he said.
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