35 Degrees and Total Fire Ban Hit Sydney and Hunter Regions
Total Fire Ban Hits Sydney and Hunter Region
A total fire ban takes effect across Sydney and the Hunter region today as millions face an extreme fire danger rating at the end of the school holidays.
Temperatures are forecast to climb to 35 degrees in the city centre and exceed 36 degrees in western suburbs.
Hot Dry Winds Drive Extreme Fire Danger
The Bureau of Meteorology issued the extreme fire danger warning for the greater metropolitan area.
Fresh north-westerly winds, hot and dry conditions, and potential afternoon thunderstorms with little to no rainfall are driving the high-risk weather. 9News and Yahoo News Australia reported that maximum temperatures could reach 37 degrees in areas such as Penrith and Campbelltown.
Lighting Fires During Ban Carries Heavy Fines
Under the total fire ban, open-air fires of any kind are strictly prohibited. The measure voids all existing fire permits and halts activities such as wood-fire barbecues.
Lighting a fire during the ban carries an on-the-spot fine of $2,200. Court-imposed penalties can reach up to $5,500 alongside a 12-month prison sentence. For fires that escape and cause damage or destruction to life, property, or the environment, penalties increase to $132,000 and 14 years in prison.
Emergency Services Warnings
NSW Rural Fire Service spokesman Greg Allan urged residents to ensure bushfire survival plans are in place.
As reported by Yahoo News Australia, Allan stated, "We don’t want to see any new fires in the open, nothing that will start a new fire," before adding, "Don’t use any solid fuel, so for anybody having a barbecue that’s no wood or charcoal."
Southerly Change Expected as Residents Stay Indoors
Bureau of Meteorology Senior Meteorologist Sarah Scully stated that eastern parts of New South Wales would experience elevated fire dangers. A southerly change is expected to move through late in the day.
Authorities advise residents to stay indoors, maintain hydration, and utilize air-conditioned public facilities while the extreme ratings remain active.