NSW Rural Fire Service reinforces bushfire threat

NSW Rural Fire Service's district officer Stuart Robb says the bushfire threat is still very real.

And the Bureau of Meteorology agrees with predictions of a drier than usual three month period from November this year.

The BOM says the drier period will affect much of the eastern half of Australia.

November to January is likely to be drier than average for large parts of eastern Australia, the bureau says.

November is likely to be drier than average for the eastern two-thirds of Australia. However, areas to the east of the Great Dividing Range in NSW have roughly equal chances of a wetter or drier than average month.

Much of eastern and southern mainland Australia have been very dry and warm since the start of the year. 

The November to January outlook indicates areas currently affected by drought are less likely to see significant respite in the coming three months, the bureau says.

Also read: Pappinbarra bushfire 2017

Mr Robb said the recent rainfall and predicted further showers were good news.

"There are certainly reduced indicators for the risk of fire right now," he said.

"However, the long term weather forecast is still dry.

"So we are cautious. 

"Typically this time of the year features nor' easterly winds, increasing in strength and duration. These winds will result in a drying out of the ground, and quickly.

"We are only in October. The forecasts are for more rain through to the end of October but then dry conditions are predicted and if these prove correct, we will be back to square one."

Mr Robb said the current cooler weather was a great opportunity for the public to review their bushfire survival plan, ensure that plan was fire proof and to ensure their property is safe.

He said volunteer firefighters will also use the time for a well deserved rest.

"This cooler, showery weather gives us some preparation time to allow us to ensure we are ready for when the warmer months arrive," he added.

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