'Catastrophic' fire danger forecast for Saturday

Conditions will be very dangerous due to high temperatures, strong and gusty winds and low humidity.

The potential fire spread prediction map (below) shows the communities that may come under threat from embers or fire fronts.

Other areas surrounding the fire may still come under threat if conditions change such as forecasts, or fires breaking containment lines.

Under catastrophic fire danger, your safest option is to leave bush fire prone areas early in the day.

Current Situation

Fire conditions have eased this afternoon.
Properties remain under threat.
Firefighters continue protecting properties in the area, supported by heavy plant machinery and aircraft.
The fire is burning on multiple fronts close to properties around Balmoral, Thirlmere, Tahmoor and Nattai.
On the fires northern front, it has crossed to the western side of the Warragamba Gorge near Mountain Lowry Creek.
The Hume Highway has reopened but may be affected by smoke. Drive to the conditions.
Conditions are forecast to worsen again tomorrow.

Advice

Nattai, Pheasants Nest, Buxton, Couridjah, Thirlmere, Tahmoor, Bargo, Yanderra, Oakdale, Lakelands, Hill Top and Balmoral

Monitor the changing conditions.
Stay alert for embers in the area.
Embers can be blown well ahead of the fire, starting spot fires that can threaten homes before the main fire front.
Know what you will do if the fire threatens.

Burnt Flat, Paling Flat, Long Flat and Bullio areas

The fire is expected to reach this area today.
If your plan is to leave, or your are not prepared, leave now towards Mittagong.
Follow the advice from firefighters in the area.

Wanganderry and High Range

Silverdale, Warragamba, The Oaks, Belimbla Park, Werombi, Orangeville, Theresa Park and Brownlow Hill

Colong Stock Route, Bindook Highlands and locations between Colo Vale and Bullio

Jaunter Road and Tuglow

If you are threatened by fire

Do not be in the path of the fire.
Protect yourself from the heat of the fire. Wear protective clothing and footwear. Cover all exposed skin.
If the fire impacts, seek shelter in a solid structure to protect yourself from the heat of the fire.
If your life is at risk, call Triple Zero (000).
If you are in an area that has already been affected by fire, there may be small areas of active fire burning for some time. Be aware of the dangers of trees and branches falling.

Evacuation Centre

Picton Bowling Club - 10 Cliffe Street, Picton
Mittagong RSL - Corner Hume Hwy and Bessemer Street, Mittagong
Narellan Community Centre - 14-16 Queen Street, Narellan
Camden Bicentennial Equestrian Park - 42 Exeter Street, Camden. This is a refuge point for animals. Animals must be accompanied by owners at all times. Owners must bring own feed and supplies.
For a list of evacuation centres visit Disaster Assistance.
People are encouraged to register online at Register Find Reunite before attending evacuation centres.
For a list of school closures visit Department of Education.

Other Information

Stay up to date on bush fires in your area by checking the NSW RFS website, listening to your local radio station, or by calling the NSW RFS Bush Fire Information Line on 1800 679 737.
People with respiratory conditions who are affected by bush fire smoke should activate their health management plan and seek medical advice if necessary. Take precautions, such as staying indoors and closing windows.
For information on road closures, check Live Traffic NSW. Roads may be closed without warning.
Monitor weather conditions and weather warnings at Bureau of Meteorology.

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