Australia Today
A total fire ban is in force in Greater Sydney and the Greater Hunter on Monday, 12 October, as hot, dry weather and possible thunderstorms raise the fire risk. The NSW Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) has rated the fire danger in Greater Sydney as Extreme and urged people to be ready to act to protect lives and property.
According to official NSW RFS information updated on Monday morning, total fire bans are in place in both Greater Sydney and the Greater Hunter. The restrictions cover many urban and suburban areas, including Blacktown, Parramatta, Penrith, Liverpool, Fairfield, Cumberland, Canterbury-Bankstown, Northern Beaches, Inner West and the Central Coast.
Guardian Australia, citing weather forecasts, also reported that temperatures in parts of western Sydney could reach around 37°C. Dry conditions, possible thunderstorms and little rainfall have heightened concerns that dry lightning could spark fires.
During a Total Fire Ban, lighting fires in the open is prohibited. Restrictions also apply to barbecues using solid fuels such as wood and charcoal. Some activities that produce sparks, including certain welding and grinding work, are also restricted.
The ban is an official safety measure currently in force, rather than general advice. Anyone planning to travel, camp or take part in outdoor activities should check the latest NSW RFS warnings and whether their intended parks or routes are closed before setting off.
As weather conditions and fire warnings can change quickly, residents in at-risk areas should monitor official information throughout the day.
Sources
Official fire danger ratings and total fire ban information: NSW Rural Fire Service.
Additional reporting on the heat and possible dry lightning: Guardian Australia.
