Australia: Wildfire rages southwest of Sydney April 14-16

Event

A wildfire is raging southwest of Sydney (New South Wales) as of Monday, April 16. As of Monday morning (local time), the fire had burned more than 2430 hectares (over 6000 acres) around Holsworthy and Menai. Over 500 firefighters have been dispatched to battle the blaze, which ignited on Saturday, April 14. According to the New South Wales Rural Fire Service (RFS), some homes in west Menai and Barden Ridge have been affected by the fire; no associated casualties have yet been reported. The cause of the fire has not been released. Heathcote Road is closed between Macarthur Drive and New Illawarra Road. 

As of around 07:00 on Monday, the fire had still not been brought under control and many firefighters remained dispatched to battle the blaze. According to the RFS, the blaze continues to burn in a southeasterly track toward Barden Ridge. Winds are expected to intensify in the area on Monday, which may fuel the spread of the fire.

Context

Bushfires have become relatively common in Australia this season following a dry winter.

Advice

Individuals in the area are advised to keep abreast of the situation and adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities. Individuals in vulnerable areas should prepare a Bushfire Survival Plan and activate the plan when told by the authorities.

For further information, please visit the website of the New South Wales RFS.