A dire fire danger alert has been announced for residents in the lower central west plains of New South Wales, anticipated for tomorrow. The warning comes in response to the forecast of hot, dry, and windy weather.

This marks the first time since September 2023 that the NSW Rural Fire Service has declared a catastrophic warning for any region within the state.

The RFS explained, “Catastrophic is the highest level of bushfire danger and signifies the most perilous conditions for a fire.”

They further cautioned, “The choices you make could be crucial to your survival, even before a fire ignites.”

Owing to the hazardous weather forecast, a total fire ban will be enforced in 11 regions across the state.

Large areas of the state are also forecast to experience extreme fire danger.

This includes the Greater Hunter, Greater Sydney, Illawarra, Shoalhaven, Central Ranges, North Western, Upper Central West Plains, Southern Slopes, Eastern Riverina, Southern Riverina and Northern Riverina.

The NSW RFS said the fire danger ratings were based on weather advice from the Bureau of Meteorology.

The advice is subject to change as forecasts are updated.

Extreme fire danger is also likely to continue into Thursday for parts of the state.

The NSW RFS said residents in areas of catastrophic fire danger should plan ahead.

“For your survival, leaving a fire risk area is your safest course of action,” the NSW RFS said.

“Stay safe by going to a safer location early in the morning or the night before.

“A safer area may be a large town or city, shopping centres or facilities well away from fire risk areas.

“Stay out of paddocks and bushland areas during the hottest parts of the day.

“Homes cannot withstand fires in these conditions. 

“You may not be able to leave and help may not be available.

“Schools in identified high risk areas may be closed. Schools will notify affected students.”

Residents should keep up to date with the latest advice and warnings on the NSW RFS website.