Dangerous Fire Conditions – Extreme Fire Danger

Summary

Extreme Fire Danger is forecast for the Greater Sydney, Illawarra/Shoalhaven and Southern Ranges areas on Thursday 19 December.

There are also broad areas of severe and very high fire danger across North, Eastern, and Southern New South Wales. Over 100 fires continue burning across the state.


Conditions will be dangerous due to high temperatures, strong and gusty winds and low humidity.


Advice for people in areas of extreme fire danger includes:
› Avoid bushland areas.
› Leaving early is the safest option for your survival. If you plan to leave, leave early
› Do not wait for a warning. If you are threatened by fire you may not get assistance.
› Only consider staying if you are prepared to the highest level – such as your home is specially designed, constructed and modified, and situation to withstand a fire, you are well prepared and can actively defend it if a fire starts.

There are significant fires burning near populated areas that will experience extreme to severe fire danger including:


› Currowan fire burning near Batemans Bay and Ulladulla
› Green Wattle Creek fire burning near Picton and Ruined Castle fire near the Megalong Valley
› Gospers Mountain fire burning near Kurrajong Heights, Bowen Mountain, communities on Bells Line of Road, Lithgow, and Cullen Bullen


These communities may come under threat on Thursday from embers or fire fronts. Conditions are then forecast to worsen again on Saturday.


With the start of the school holidays, check and review your travel plans given the current fire conditions along your route, and at your destination. Be prepared for disruption and delays.


NSW RFS work closely with NSW Police and Transport for NSW around any major road closures affecting holiday travel. Monitor www.livetraffic.com for major road closures.


A statewide Total Fire Ban has been declared for all areas of NSW until midnight Saturday 21 December.

Contact Name: State Duty Media Officer

Contact Phone: 0298981855