GFMC: Bush and Forest Fires in Australia
Bush and Forest Fires in Australia
29 December 2002
FireDanger in Australia
This true-color ModerateResolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) was captured by the Aqua satellite on 22 (above) and 23 December 2002, and shows active fires marked with red outlines.
Source: MODIS
Australia´s fire seasons
Actual Fire Situation Maps,Victoria
An actual fire situation map can be found directly at:
http://www.nre.vic.gov.au/fires/updates/report/index.htm
Total Fire Bans – 30 December 2002
Monday, 30 December 2002 – The Commissioner of the NSWRural Fire Service has declared a Total Fire Ban in the following WeatherForecast Districts:
South Western Slopes, Central Western Plains, Upper Western, Lower Western &Riverina
The weather forecast for this area is very high temperature, low humidity andmoderate to strong winds. These conditions are conducive to fire activity andthe community is urged to take particular care. Fire danger in this area will beextreme or approaching extreme.
The Total Fire Ban will become effective for the 24 hours from MIDNIGHT TONIGHT,Sunday, 29 December 2002 until MIDNIGHT Monday, 30 December 2002.
During a Total Fire Ban no fire of any kind may be lit in the open. Thisincludes incinerators and barbecues, which burn solid fuel, e.g. wood orcharcoal. You may use a gas or electric barbecue, but only if
· It is on residential property within 20m of the house or dwelling;
· It is under the direct control of a responsible adult;
· The ground around the barbecue is cleared for 3m of all material which couldburn;
· You have a continuous supply of running water.
A map identifying the boundaries of weather districts can be found on the Bureauof Meteorology web site at http://www.bom.gov.au/weather/nsw/dist_map.shtml.
Members of the public can phone 1 800 654 443 or their local NSW Rural FireService Fire Control Centre for more information.
For more information (Please note this is for MEDIA INQUIRIESONLY):
Duty Media Officer 02 9898 1855
Source: NSW Rural FireService
Fire Weather Forecast for the Pacific Region
Fire Weather Index for the
Pacific Region for tomorrow.
(Source: ECPCFire Weather Index Forecast)
For more information on Australia see the IFFN country notes and have a look at the Australian and New Zealand links.
For background Information see also: Recent Media Highlights on Fire, Policies, and Politics
