Firefighters tackle blazes across NSW with heat records set to tumble

Firefighters tackle blazes across NSW with heat records set to tumble

Unprecedented September Heatwave

Currently, Australia’s New South Wales (NSW) is facing an extraordinary heatwave for September, leading to numerous fires raging across the state. At present, 66 fires are ablaze, all at the advice level, with two sparking particular concern. One such fire is situated at Point Piper Road in Eraring within Lake Macquarie, and the other is causing havoc on Silverwater Road in Wallacia, which has been closed due to the flames. To combat the fire, waterbombing aircraft have been mobilized in Wallacia.

Smashing Temperature Records

The Bureau of Meteorology has forecasted a temperature of 35 degrees for NSW’s capital, indicating the second consecutive day of such heightened temperatures. This heat is unusual for Sydney, which has never documented two consecutive days of 34 degrees or more in September before this week. Historical records from 1859 reveal that Sydney had only reached 34 degrees in September three times prior to this week.

Fire Bans and Park Closures

In response to the extreme heat and fires, a total fire ban has been implemented for Greater Sydney, the Hunter, and the Upper Central West regions. Additionally, national parks around the Sydney region have also been closed to the public. Relief from the heat is expected after today, with a forecast maximum of 22 degrees for Sydney on Thursday, followed by a top of 19 degrees on Friday.

El Niño Event: A Hotter Summer Ahead

The Bureau of Meteorology has also confirmed that an El Niño event is currently occurring, suggesting that this summer will be hotter than average and indeed hotter than the past three years. Australia last experienced an El Niño event during the summer of 2015-16. Current climate models indicate that this El Niño period will persist until at least the end of the southern hemisphere summer at the end of February.

Implications for the Future

This record-breaking heatwave and the confirmed El Niño event pose serious challenges for Australia, especially concerning the management and control of wildfires. The severity and frequency of such extreme weather events are a stark reminder of the escalating impacts of climate change, underscoring the urgent need for effective climate action to mitigate future risks.