Hazard reduction burns fast-tracked as NSW faces higher fire risk

New South Wales authorities have fast-tracked hazard reduction burns, completing 124,000 hectares of work in the past year, a 21% increase. This proactive measure comes as the state braces for a potentially challenging fire season with forecasts of above-average temperatures and below-average rainfall, exacerbated by El Niño conditions.

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Over recent years, we've seen reduced windows for hazard reduction burning. We've seen increased rain, that's increased the amount of fuel across our landscapes.

NSW Rural Fire Service Commissioner Trent Curtin expressed satisfaction with the increased burn rate, attributing it to improved weather conditions over recent periods. However, he also conveyed concern regarding the elevated fire danger and the predicted climate patterns. "We recognise that this high-risk season involves sometimes storms as well as fires," Curtin stated, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the upcoming months.

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We recognise that this high-risk season involves sometimes storms as well as fires.

Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib affirmed that agencies are maximizing opportunities for hazard reduction before summer. "We've been going hard," he said, emphasizing preparedness despite the inability to control weather. Environment Minister Penny Sharpe underscored the importance of inter-agency collaboration, drawing parallels with the severe fires currently impacting the northern hemisphere. "As we see the fires that are raging across the northern hemisphere, we know that this could be us in the coming months," she remarked, while assuring the public that authorities are "alert, not alarmed, but prepared."

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We've been going hard.

Residents are strongly encouraged to undertake "mechanical hazard reduction" on their properties, which includes clearing gutters, trimming trees, and maintaining low grass. Developing comprehensive bushfire survival plans is also a key recommendation. The bushfire danger period officially commences on October 1 for most of NSW, with some northern areas anticipating an earlier start. The state's agricultural sector is also contending with drought conditions, with approximately 37% of NSW affected at the end of July.

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As we see the fires that are raging across the northern hemisphere, we know that this could be us in the coming months.