08 Nov 2019 | 05:24 AM UTC
Australia: Multiple wildfires ongoing in New South Wales November 8 /update 3
Multiple wildfires are ongoing along the north coast and northern parts of New South Wales as of November 8; highway closures and emergency warnings in effect
Event
According to the commissioner of the New South Wales Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS), at least 90 fires are ongoing in the north coast and northern parts of New South Wales state as of Friday, November 8. The main fire areas include Tenterfield, Armidale, Clarence Valley, Port Macquarie, Nambucca, Kempsey, and Mid-Coast. At least nine areas are currently under emergency warnings and another nine are under watch and act. Sections of the two main highways between Sydney and Brisbane have also been closed. The Pacific Highway between Taree and Buladelah is closed in both directions along with the New England Highway between Tenterfield and Glen Innes. Motorists are being advised to avoid the area of the fires and delay non-essential travel.
Further spread of the fires is expected over the coming days as weather conditions across NSW remain hot, dry, and windy. A heightened security presence, road closures, and power outages are to be expected in the vicinity of the wildfires. Up-to-date information on the fire can be found on the NSW RFS website here.
Context
Wildfires in New South Wales are ongoing since October 9. Authorities have indicated that the fires are due to high temperatures and drought.
Wildfires are an annual event in Australia between December and February; however, the authorities have been on high alert since September 2015 over unseasonably warm temperatures, prompting scientists to speculate that climate change could be extending and increasing the intensity of the fire season.
Advice
Individuals present in New South Wales are advised to keep abreast of warnings and adhere to any instructions issued by local authorities, notably evacuation orders. As high temperatures are expected in the near-term, individuals are also advised to remain hydrated and minimize outdoor activities. Furthermore, individuals should limit outdoor activities until the situation normalizes and those with chronic respiratory illnesses should exercise increased caution; seek medical attention if experiencing breathing difficulties or other health concerns.
