AS TEMPERATURES soar over the next few days, the NSW Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) is warning of dangerous fire conditions across many parts of NSW, including the Mid North Coast.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Temperatures are expected to reach the mid-40s in many areas with strong winds and low humidity.
NSW RFS Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons said that based on latest forecasts, Severe and Extreme fire dangers are expected in widespread areas, and there is the potential for Catastrophic fire danger in the Hunter region on Sunday.
“We will start to see fire dangers increase across southern NSW on Friday. On Saturday, temperatures and winds will pick up, meaning an increased fire danger extending across much of the State.
“On Sunday, winds will continue to strengthen. If the forecast eventuates we’re likely to see Catastrophic fire danger develop in some areas including the Hunter.
“The NSW RFS and Bureau of Meteorology will be reviewing forecasts and conditions regularly and confirm total fire bans and fire danger ratings each day.
“If you live in a fire prone area, use the time now to get ready. Do not leave it until it’s too late.
“Firefighters from the NSW RFS, Fire & Rescue NSW, National Parks & Wildlife Service and Forestry Corporation of NSW, are well prepared.
“While they are very well trained, skilled and dedicated, we also need the community to be prepared.”
There are a number of simple things you can do now to get ready and stay safe:
Make sure you have a plan for what you will do if a fire starts near you. Check and follow your bush fire survival plan.
Stay up to date with fires in your area. Check the RFS website or Fires Near Me smartphone app.
If you see an unattended fire call Triple Zero (000).
Do a check of your property making sure you have a good water supply and hoses that can reach all parts of your home.
Stay hydrated. Check on elderly, children and pets.
Commissioner Fitzsimmons also urged residents to make or update their bush fire survival plan, with a guide to assist available at www.myfireplan.com.au
Information on bush fire activity and latest fire danger ratings can be found at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au.
Meanwhile, thousands of NSW power consumers may be forced to endure blackouts this afternoon after the national electricity market operator warned of a looming power shortage as heatwave conditions cause demand to far outstrip supply.
The Australian Energy Market Operator has issued a warning that between 3 o’clock and 5.30, NSW faces a shortfall of 419 megawatts of power even after importing large amounts of electricity from neighbouring Victoria and Queensland.
Unless additional generating capacity can be found, AEMO may be forced to repeat the load shedding order that saw 90,000 homes in South Australia have their power supplies cut earlier this week.
“We are now facing the potential for an east coast power crisis because privatisation has failed to deliver the promised outcomes,” Electrical Trades Union deputy secretary Dave McKinley said.
