Heavy fuel loads generated by months of above-average rainfall are expected to create dangerous conditions as spring progresses into a forecast drier summer.
The NSW Rural Fire Service says abundant winter rain and full soil moisture profiles have driven significant grass and vegetation growth across paddocks, roadsides, travelling stock reserves and unmanaged land, creating the conditions for fast-moving fires once hotter weather arrives.
Mid Murray Rural Fire Service district coordinator Gerard James said the region was entering the Bush Fire Danger Period under concerning seasonal conditions.
“Considering the above-average rainfall and temperatures we have experienced across the zone for the winter period, and with the soil moisture profile being full, we expect to see fuel loads continue to increase well into the spring,” Mr James said.
“The long-range forecast is predicting a drier spring with the El Niño phase continuing well into 2027.
“The risk of fire across our zone will be elevated due to the high amount of rain we have received, and landholders need to start to prepare for the upcoming Bush Fire Danger Period.”
Southern Border District manager, Superintendent Tom McDevitt, echoed the concerns, saying the sheer volume of grass growth across the region would provide ample fuel for grassfires.
“While no one can predict exactly where or when a fire will start, the amount of grass growth we are seeing across the district means there is plenty of fuel available to support fast-moving fires once conditions become hotter and drier,” he said.
Grassfires can spread rapidly under hot, dry and windy conditions, threatening homes, machinery, crops, livestock and critical infrastructure within minutes.
Authorities are now urging residents not to delay preparations, warning that the safest course of action is to prepare properties and make emergency decisions well before fire threatens.
“The most important thing people can do right now is prepare their property, discuss their plans with family members and ensure they know what they will do if a fire occurs,” Supt McDevitt said.
Residents are being encouraged to mow or slash long grass, clear gutters and roof spaces, check pumps and water supplies, and prepare a Bush Fire Survival Plan that identifies when to leave, where to go and what to do if conditions deteriorate.
Fire authorities are also reminding landholders undertaking hazard reduction or pile burns to notify neighbours and the Rural Fire Service, ensure adequate firefighting resources are available and only burn when conditions are suitable.
Mr James said preparation undertaken now could make a significant difference when fire strikes.
“The time to plan this is now, not when the fire is approaching,” he said.
The Bush Fire Danger Period for both regions begins this Thursday, October 1.
Authorities say residents should closely monitor conditions and warnings through the Hazards Near Me app and the NSW RFS website throughout the season.
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