Crews on standby for severe fire conditions

Summary

Canobolas Zone area including Orange, Cowra, Blayney and Cabonne has a Severe Fire Danger rating today with a Total Fire Ban.

This is our first Severe Fire Danger rating day for the season. High temperatures with gusting westerly winds and relative humidity levels below 10% is a dangerous combination.

Severe fire danger

All Brigades have been placed on Standby due to the severe conditions.

Resources such as aircraft may not be available due to being utilised elsewhere. 

There are a number of fires already burning across the state with one being in the Freemantle area. A State of Emergency had been declared for the Currandooley Fire earlier today, with the loss so  far of one property.

With storms predicted for tonight and lightning strikes in the Cowra area, it is possible fires could flare up from these strikes. Be on the lookout for smoke and report to 000.

DO NOT:

Use grinders, welders, slashers, solders, gas cutting equipment,  mowers or even drive your vehicle into long grass. NO fires are to be lit in the open.

It will be a day to stay indoors, keep cool and drink plenty of water.

Don't forget your elderly neighbours, check on them if you can and make sure your pets are kept cool.