Two major fires in the Hawkesbury Local Government Area (LGA) remain at watch and act level today (Thursday) with residents advised to monitor conditions.
Firefighters continue to undertake backburning work on the Gospers Mountain fire, which was escalated to emergency status late yesterday afternoon and is now about 233,000 hectares in size.
"Fire activity has increased in the area of Colo Heights," the NSW Rural Fire Service said in a statement issued early this morning. "Firefighters are undertaking backburning to work on containing the fire.
"If you are in the area of Colo Heights, monitor conditions. Know what you will do if the fire threatens. Follow the advice from firefighters in the area."
Wisemans Ferry Road remains closed from the ferry east to Mill Creek, the RFS has advised.
Meanwhile, the Three Mile creek affecting both the Hawkesbury and Central Coast LGAs is now more than 6,300 hectares in size and continues to burn between Lower Macdonald and Mangrove Mountain. The Wrights Creek fire is burning to the north.
"Today will be a challenging day for firefighters and communities in parts of the Central Coast," the RFS stated.
"Under forecast conditions, two large fires are likely to spread in an easterly direction.
"If you are in the area of Lower Mangrove, Central Macdonald and Lower Macdonald, activate your bush fire survival plan. If your plan is to leave, leaving early is the safest option.
"If you are in the area of St Albans, Gunderman, Spencer, Wendoree Park, Calga, Mount White, Glenworth Valley and Kulnura, monitor conditions. Know what you will do if fire threatens."
The fire danger rating for the Greater Sydney Region, of which the Hawkesbury LGA is a part, for today is severe.
A total fire ban has also been declared for the region today.
- People with respiratory conditions who are affected by bush fire smoke should activate their health management plan and seek medical advice if necessary. Take precautions, such as staying indoors and closing windows.
- Stay up to date on bush fires in your area by checking the NSW RFS website, listening to your local radio station, or by calling the NSW RFS Bush Fire Information Line on 1800 679 737.
- For information on road closures, check Live Traffic NSW. Roads may be closed without warning.
