03 November 2009

Total Fire Ban Information - 12:00 Tuesday 3 November 2009


REPORT ALL FIRES TO '000'.

Do not waste valuable time trying to call your local Fire Station, as it may be unattended. For a rapid response to any emergency, always call Triple Zero - '000'.

There is currently no bushfire activity in the Blue Mountains area.



Hot, dry and windy conditions are expected to increase fire dangers to dangerous levels in parts of NSW today - including the Blue Mountains District. A Total Fire Ban is in force until Midnight tonight [Tuesday 3 November].

How high is the Fire Danger today?

A Severe Fire Danger [FDI 50-74] is forecast for today. This means that any bushfire that starts has the potential to threaten lives and destroy homes. Fires will likely be uncontrollable and fast-moving, with flames that may be higher than rooftops.

What is the weather doing?

Weather Forecast for Tuesday
Isolated showers and thunderstorms, clearing early this morning, but redeveloping later in the afternoon or evening. Fresh to strong west to northwest winds ahead of a west to southwest change later in the afternoon or evening.
Fire danger: Locally Severe [50-74]

Katoomba : Chance late shower/thunderstorm.  Max:   29
Springwood: Chance late shower/thunderstorm.  Max:   35

Winds are coming from the West to North-West at up to 65km/h.

From the above you can see that the weather will be hot and windy ahead of a cooler change tonight. The change is forecast to move through the Blue Mountains sometime between 4:00pm and 8:00pm this evening, with strong winds gusting up to 60km/h.

What should I do?

The Rural Fire Service advises that if you are in an area of Severe Fire Danger:

  • If you plan to leave, finalise your options and leave early on the day
  • Only stay if your home is well prepared and you can actively defend it.
  • Prepare for the emotional, mental and physical impact of defending your property - if in doubt, leave.

In general you are advised to:


Regards,

Eric.

Inspector Eric J Berry
Community Safety Officer
Blue Mountains District
NSW Rural Fire Service