Australia Faces Increased Risk Of Bushfires This Spring

Large regions of Queensland and the Northern Territory, as well as the south-west of Victoria and the south-east corner of South Australia, are facing increased risk of bushfires this spring.

The latest Spring outlook from the National Council for Fire and Emergency Services Authorities (AFAC) has forecasted higher-than-average temperatures.

The report, released on Wednesday morning reveals that Queensland, the Northern Territory, and western Victoria are at heightened risk of bushfires this spring. 

The Bureau of Meteorology’s forecast predicts above-average temperatures across Australia from August to October, contributing to the increased fire threat.

According to the Spring Outlook report, there is an increased chance of above-average rainfall for much of NSW, Queensland, eastern Tasmania, and far southeast SA, while large parts of WA have an increased chance of below-average rainfall.

NSW and ACT

Most of New South Wales (NSW) saw average to above-average rainfall over winter, which prevented prescribed burns and fostered lush grass growth. As spring arrives, large parts of the state remain wetter than usual, with grasses greener than typical for this time of year. 

Grass fuel loads in NSW are higher than normal due to favourable growing conditions, with some areas experiencing extremely high pasture growth. 

The Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences reported that although grasses are still wet, warmer-than-average spring temperatures could quickly dry them out. This, combined with high grass growth, raises the risk of intense grass fires, especially in northern NSW where warmer temperatures are expected.

Northern Territory

The outlook indicated that “elevated curing activity” is expected to persist across the state this spring, with above-average daytime temperatures forecasted for most regions.

In the Northern Territory, vegetation is drying quickly, and fires are carrying overnight. This has increased the risk in areas such as Alice Springs, Barkly, and the Savanna fire management zones.

Landholders across the Territory are also urged to review and update their fire management plans. 

The Seasonal Outlook is not intended as a prediction of where and when bushfires will occur. 

However, it reflects the priorities for each state and territory based on expected climate conditions. The Spring Outlook identifies areas of increased risk of fire “so communities are aware and primed to take appropriate action.”

AFAC CEO Rob Webb urged communities to prepare and follow the guidance of local fire authorities this spring.

“Fire and emergency services are prepared for the fire season ahead and are here today to encourage communities to do the same,” Mr Webb said.

“Now is the time to make a plan. Understand your local risk, know where you will get your information, and talk to your family about what you will do.’”

For further information about climate forecasts and conditions, please visit www.bom.gov.au/climate/about/australian-climateinfluences.shtml

For health information relating to smoke from bush fires and hazard reduction burning, visit the NSW Health website or Asthma Australia.