March 16, 2025 – New South Wales is experiencing a severe heatwave, prompting a total fire ban in Sydney as authorities brace for extreme bushfire risk. With temperatures soaring up to 12°C above average, forecasters warn of hot, dry, and windy conditions that could fuel dangerous wildfires.

The Bureau of Meteorology predicted Sydney’s temperature would reach 37°C (98.6°F), while Sydney Airport recorded 29.3°C (84.7°F) by 9:30 a.m., already exceeding the city’s historical March mean maximum temperature.

Fire Danger and Total Ban in Sydney

Gusty winds, low humidity, and scorching conditions have led the Rural Fire Service (RFS) to issue a total fire ban across large parts of the state, including Sydney. Authorities fear worsening fire conditions reminiscent of the 2019-2020 ‘Black Summer’ bushfires, which burned an area the size of Turkey and killed 33 people.

Key Fire Risk Factors:

Temperatures up to 12°C above average
Low humidity and strong winds
Dry vegetation increasing fire spread risk

Bushfires Near Melbourne

In Victoria, a bushfire near Melbourne destroyed a home on the city’s outskirts. The blaze, tackled by 200 firefighters, highlights the escalating fire threat across southeastern Australia.

Bernard Barbetti of the Country Fire Authority told Australian media that the fire remained a challenge, with hot, dry conditions fueling the flames.

Climate Change and Rising Fire Risks

Australia’s scientific agencies have repeatedly warned that climate change is making extreme heatwaves and bushfires more frequent and severe. With 27 million people living in one of the world’s most fire-prone countries, authorities are increasingly concerned about the impact of prolonged heatwaves on communities, infrastructure, and ecosystems.

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What’s Next?

Firefighters and emergency responders are on high alert, with authorities urging residents to follow safety guidelines and prepare for potential evacuations as heatwave conditions persist.

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