PREDICTED sweltering conditions coupled with strong winds have made for a total fire ban across the Mid-North Coast on Thursday.
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With temperatures expecting to soar to 40 degrees on the Mid-North Coast, NSW Rural Fire Service announced the ban across the area on Wednesday afternoon.
Authorities say a severe fire danger rating was expected for the region – just two below the highest possible fire danger rating.
Fourteen other areas across the state are also under the ban with extreme fire conditions expected in the Hunter Valley and Sydney.
“These are dangerous conditions, and it’s critical that you understand the risk and make your final preparations now – do not leave it until the last minute,” RFS Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons said.
“Under these conditions, any fire that starts and takes hold will spread quickly and may threaten homes and lives without warning.
“It is not too late to make a Bush Fire Survival Plan. If you live in or near a bushland area, sit down with your family tonight and ensure everyone knows what they will do if there is a fire.
“The NSW RFS is liaising closely with the Bureau of Meteorology to monitor conditions.”
Campground closures and park fire bans will be in force in national parks in the north coast hinterland to reduce the risk in the face of predicted severe fire weather conditions.
National Parks (NPWS) North Coast regional manager Alan Jeffery said that campgrounds in the Dorrigo and upper Clarence Valley area will be closed for 24 hours on Thursday.
“While coastal campgrounds and the Dorrigo Rainforest Centre will remain open, visitors will not be able to light fires in many areas," he said.“Campgrounds in Nymboida, Nymboi-Binderay, Cathedral Rock, New England and Guy Fawkes River national parks will be closed for 24 hours for the safety of visitors and to reduce fire risk.
“Additionally, park fire bans will be in place in Hat Head and Arakoon national parks, and at Point Lookout, Ebor Falls, Clybucca Historic Site and at Boorkoom picnic area in Yuraygir National Park.
“If you or friends intend to visit a park anywhere in NSW on Thursday , please check for park closures and fire bans at www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au or contact the park office before visiting."
