Australians have been warned to prepare for a hot and dry summer, fuelling an increased bushfire risk.
The Australian and New Zealand National Council for fire and emergency services (AFAC) released its bushfire outlooks for summer 2023, highlighting the communities most at risk.
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Large parts of Queensland, New South Wales, and the Northern Territory, have been signalled as increased risk of fire areas, as well as parts of Tasmania, Victoria, South Australia, and Western Australia.
Record-breaking dry conditions and warmer than average temperatures were recorded during spring, with those conditions expected to continue into the new year.
AFAC said “abundant vegetation growth supported by previous La Niña rainfall will continue to dry throughout summer, increasing the flammability of fuel loads”.
It noted areas burnt during the 2019-20 fire season could be affected.
AFAC chief executive Rob Webb said all Australians should be aware of the bushfire information in their area and prepare to take necessary action if impacted.
“An increased risk of bushfire makes it even more important for you to take action,” he said.
“Wherever you live, work, or visit this summer, know where to find bushfire information, prepare your property, and talk to your family and friends about what you will do in an emergency.”
“Australian fire agencies have had a busy start to the bushfire season, with many working in their communities and across state borders to respond to bushfires,” he said.
“Communities can stay safer and support our fire agencies by being prepared for bushfire this summer.”
Detailed outlooks for each state and territory can be found on the AFAC website.