Australians should be prepared for more fire risks according to the Australian Seasonal Bushfire Outlook: September 2020, which covers all states and territories through to November.
The Bushfire and Natural Hazards Cooperative Research Centre (BNHCRC) today published its seasonal bushfire outlook, which takes into account vegetation and fuel loads, as well the existing and forecast weather conditions.
Minister for Emergency Management David Littleproud said all Australians, especially in the high-risk areas outlined in the report, should now be preparing to protect their family and property against bushfires.
"While communities across Australia are continuing to recover and rebuild from the horrific 2019-20 bushfire season, the next challenge is to make sure we are all prepared for the risks facing us over the coming summer," Minister Littleproud said.
"In the south-east of the country, experts are warning of potentially hazardous grassland fires due to above average levels of growth brought on by wetter than average conditions expected through spring.
"In Queensland, the outlook is for above normal fire potential in the south east and central coast, extending to the north."
The Australian Seasonal Bushfire Outlook: September 2020 will be used by fire authorities to make strategic decisions such as resource planning and prescribed fire management to reduce the negative impacts of bushfire.
"All levels of government are working together to prepare for the risk of bushfires and reduce their impact on communities when they occur," Minister Littleproud said.
"While we can work with authorities to properly prepare, it's also critical families, households and individuals do what they can to prepare themselves.
"Talk to your neighbours, ask them about their evacuation plan and let them know about your plan.
"People wanting more information on how to plan and prepare, should contact their local fire service."
The BNHCRC Australian Seasonal Bushfire Outlook: September 2020 can be found at www.bnhcrc.com.au/hazardnotes/77 .
