Many locals awoke to the smell of smoke, wondering if there was a bushfire nearby.
But Chris Davies from Fire and Rescue NSW says the smoke was caused by back-burning at a fire in Heatherbrae, Port Stephens.
He says crews worked overnight in the cooler and more humid conditions ahead of today's expected severe fire conditions.
An emergency warning has now been issued for the Hank St fire at Heatherbrae, with the fire breaching containment lines under gusty winds and burning towards Tomago Rd.
Properties around Tomago Rd and Cabbage Tree Rd may come under threat.
Residents are advised if their plan is to leave, or they are not prepared to defend their homes, they should leave immediately if the path is clear.
The Bureau of Meteorology is predicting temperatures of up to 34 degrees in the region today, along with north-westerly winds up to 50km/h.
However, there is a chance of thunderstorms and isolated showers from early afternoon.
Michelle Goldman from the Asthma Foundation NSW told 1233 ABC Newcastle's Philip Clark the smoky conditions will be difficult for asthma sufferers.
"Smoke from wood fires is a very common trigger," she says.
"So it's going to make the lives of many people miserable.
"Smoke from wood fires, whether it's hazard reduction burns, or bushfires or even woodsmoke heaters in homes, emits a whole range of toxic substances that are carried around in the air.
"We breathe that in and those particles travel all the way down deep into our lungs, and that's where they create the inflammatory responses which make it difficult for people to breathe, cause the lungs to constrict, and that can be a real problem."
Michelle advises asthmatics who need to take preventative medication to do so daily to get the best protection.
She also advises everyone to avoid too much exposure to the smoke by staying indoors as much as possible, keeping windows and doors closed, using air-conditioning and choosing recycled air in your car.
You should particularly avoid exercising outside on such a smoky day, Michelle warns.
If you have to be outdoors and the smoke is really bothering you, a face mask or bandana over your nose and mouth should help.
Australia has one of the highest incidences of asthma in the world, with one in 10 people suffering from the condition, and Michelle says the reasons why are still a bit of a mystery.
You can find the latest weather forecasts and warnings at the Bureau of Meteorology website, and updates on fires at the Rural Fire Service website.
Currently, a bushfire is burning under severe weather conditions in the Tangory Mountain area, 15km east of Singleton.
Residents in the area of Cranky Corner Rd, Glen Alistair Rd and Bimbadeen Rd are being informed of the potential fire threat should the weather deteriorate during the day.
Firefighters supported by aircraft are working to ensure the fire remains within its containment area.
The RFS advises residents to check and follow their Bushfire Survival Plan, call triple zero immediately if lives are at risk, and stay up to date on the fire situation by checking the RFS website, listening to your local ABC radio station or calling the NSW RFS Bushfire Information Line on 1800 679 737.
If you live in the area and are away from home, it may not be safe to return to your property.
Roads may be closed without warning, and you can check closures on this website.
No comments:
Post a Comment