The Carrai East fire, north-west of Kempsey, has just gone to emergency level, and anybody near Taylors Arm Road or Hickeys Creek who is unprepared is advised to leave towards Kempsey now before conditions get worse.
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If you are in surrounding areas, including Eight Mile Creek Road, Dungay, Boonanghi, Wittitrin or Five Day Creek, monitor conditions and have a plan ready if the fire impacts. Any areas that have already been affected by fire might still have active flames; everyone is reminded to be aware of falling trees and branches.
If you are threatened by fire
- Do not be in the path of the fire.
- Protect yourself from the heat of the fire. Wear protective clothing and footwear. Cover all exposed skin.
- If the fire impacts, seek shelter in a solid structure to protect yourself from the heat of the fire.
- If your life is at risk, call Triple Zero (000).
The Macleay has a total fire ban in place for today, along with a Severe bushfire danger rating.
The weather forecast for this afternoon predicts a top of 36 degrees and 7% relative humidity for the Carrai East Complex fire with west winds increasing to moderate to fresh throughout the afternoon. Under these conditions, fires are difficult to control and can move quickly without warning.
Residents are reminded to watch out for embers, which can be blown up to 4 km ahead of the fire, creating unpredictable spot fires that can threaten homes earlier than the predicted main fire front.
Fire crews are currently deployed in critical areas to try and hold containment lines and protect life and property. Several water-bucketing aircraft and heavy plant are also tasked to support firefighters.
- If your life is at risk, call Triple Zero (000) immediately.
- If you live in the area but are away from home, it may not be safe to return to your property.
- Stay up to date on bush fires in your area by checking the NSW RFS website, listening to your local radio station, or by calling the NSW RFS Bush Fire Information Line on 1800 679 737.
- For information on road closures, check http://livetraffic.rta.nsw.gov.au. Roads may be closed without warning.
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