Bushfire outlook forecasts increased fire risk in southern parts of Australia
Areas of southern Australia already hit by ongoing drought conditions face a heightened risk of fire this winter, according to the latest seasonal fire report.
The Seasonal Bushfire Outlook, published by the Australian and New Zealand National Council for Fire and Emergency Services (AFAC), showed persistent and significant dry conditions could result in "unseasonable bushfire risk" in large parts of Victoria and South Australia.
Impacted areas include capital cities Adelaide and Melbourne, as well as large swathes of western Victoria.
It comes as long-term rainfall deficiencies persist across southern Australia.
Higher-than-average pressure along the south has also contributed to drier conditions, according to the report.
AFAC chief executive Rob Webb said prolonged drought conditions could result in more activity than normal.
"Fire authorities will monitor the landscape conditions and climate influences closely this season to manage bushfire risk and identify opportunities for mitigation activities such as planned burning."
The AFAC outlook showed June through to August was "very likely" to be warmer than average across Australia.
But while parts of the mainland were forecast to receive above-average rainfall, the south-east and south-west could miss out.
June to August was tipped to be warmer than usual across Australia, with wetter conditions for most — except in the south-east and south-west.
The outlook combined expert analysis of bushfire fuels, past rainfall and temperature, and climate outlooks prepared by the Bureau of Meteorology.
Communities have been urged to stay vigilant this winter — even where fire risk was considered normal.
In a Facebook post, the Kyneton Fire Brigade warned people to take extra care lighting fires.
"We are in May. You shouldn't be seeing "HIGH" on the fire danger board," the statement read.
"Yet here we are. Help us stop the next one.
"Be smart. Be ready. Or don't burn."
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