Severe weather wrap up – Top End

The Northern Territory Fire and Rescue Service were extremely busy in the Top End over the last week.

Last week, brought the most severe fire weather conditions experienced to date this fire season, with four consecutive fire bans in place from Monday through to Thursday. The fire bans were declared across the Darwin region, but also extended to the Pine Creek and Katherine Emergency Response Areas. A total of 137 wildfires had been responded to Territory wide, from 6 September to 10 September 2021, additional to motor vehicle crashes and structure fires.

As of 6 September 2021, the Greater Darwin Emergency Response Areas, through both planned fuel reduction burning and wildfires has seen 11,281 hectares burnt this year to date.

The significant fire activity last week will see that figure increase as a result of the wildfires experienced said Acting Deputy Chief Fire Officer Joshua Fischer.

“We expect to continue to experience elevated fire danger across parts of the Top end through September.

“The size, intensity, speed and predictability of wildfires, as well as how dangerous they were, have all been influenced by recent dry and windy weather conditions. The last few weeks have served a reminder for all Territorians, regardless of where you live, to develop a Bushfire Survival Plan.

“Preparing for bushfires is easier than people may think. It all begins with a simple discussion with your family about what you would do if a bushfire was start nearby”.

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