Authorities are urging thousands of residents across New South Wales to take immediate action as searing heat and powerful winds create the most severe bushfire conditions witnessed in years.
Catastrophic Conditions Declared
Fire danger ratings have escalated dramatically, with vast areas of the state facing an "extreme" threat. The situation is even more dire in the Lower Central West Plains, where a "catastrophic" rating—the highest possible level—has been declared. This warning covers the local government areas of Bland, Forbes, Lachlan, Narromine, Parkes, Temora, Weddin, and Dubbo.
This marks the first time the NSW Rural Fire Service has raised the alert to its maximum setting since the devastating 2023 bushfire season, which tragically claimed 10 lives and scorched a staggering 96 million hectares of land.
Urgent Warnings and School Closures
The Bureau of Meteorology has forecast temperatures in Dubbo to soar to 36C, accompanied by westerly winds reaching speeds of up to 50km/h. The NSW RFS has issued a stark warning to residents, stating that their "life may depend on the decisions you make, even before there is a fire."
Residents are strongly advised to "Stay safe by going to a safer location early in the morning or the night before," with the grim caution that if they wait, they may not be able to leave and help may not be available.
In response to the imminent danger, the Department of Education has taken the precautionary step of closing 25 public schools, most of which are located in the Riverina and Central West regions. These areas are experiencing temperatures up to 10C above the November average.
Widespread Fire Bans and National Impact
The extreme conditions have led to total fire bans being declared for millions of residents, including those in metropolitan Sydney, who are also bracing for a 36C day. The severe weather is not confined to NSW, with wind gusts of more than 90km/h expected in southern NSW and Victoria.
Bureau of Meteorology's Sarah Scully explained that these winds are "combining with warm to hot temperatures and really dry air and that is elevating fire dangers across the region."
For those in regions with extreme danger ratings, the message is clear: check your bush fire plan and ensure your property is fire-ready. The NSW RFS directive is unequivocal: "If a fire starts, take immediate action. If you and your property are not prepared to the highest level, go to a safer location well before the fire impacts." Total fire bans are currently in place for a further 10 regions of NSW, including Greater Sydney, Illawarra, and the Hunter. All residents are urged to stay informed with the latest official warnings.
