🔥 Total Fire Ban Declared for Sydney and Central NSW Amid Extreme Fire Danger
News Update-Information and formatting Google AI
SYDNEY, NSW – December 6, 2025
The New South Wales Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) has declared a Total Fire Ban for the Greater Sydney, Greater Hunter, Central Ranges, and Illawarra/Shoalhaven regions today, Saturday, December 6, 2025, due to forecast Extreme fire danger conditions.
The ban, which is in place for 24 hours, comes as parts of NSW face hot, dry, and windy conditions, significantly elevating the risk of fast-moving and unpredictable bush fires.
Extreme Danger: ‘Take Action Now’
The Fire Danger Rating for the Greater Sydney and surrounding districts has reached Extreme, prompting the NSW RFS to issue its strongest warning: “Take action now to protect your life and property.”
A NSW RFS spokesperson, urged residents to activate their Bush Fire Survival Plans immediately.
Today’s weather presents extremely dangerous fire conditions. Fires under an Extreme rating will spread quickly, be difficult to control, and can threaten properties and lives. If your property is not prepared to the highest level, the safest option is to go to a safer location well before a fire impacts your area.
What the Total Fire Ban Means
Under a Total Fire Ban, no fire may be lit in the open. This means:
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No open fires are permitted, including cooking fires using solid fuels like wood or charcoal.
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All fire permits are suspended.
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General purpose hot works, such as welding, grinding, or gas cutting, are not to be done in the open.
The RFS confirmed that gas or electric barbecues may be used, but only under strict conditions: they must be attended by a responsible adult, be within 20 metres of a permanent dwelling, have a 2-metre area clear of combustible material, and have an immediate and continuous supply of water available.
Affected Regions and Call to Action
The Total Fire Ban applies to multiple Fire Danger Districts, including all local government areas within:
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Greater Sydney
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Greater Hunter
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Central Ranges
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Illawarra/Shoalhaven
Residents in all of these areas are strongly advised to reconsider travel through bush fire-prone areas and to remain vigilant.
The NSW RFS is also warning that lighting a fire on a Total Fire Ban day carries severe penalties, including fines of up to $5,500 and/or 12 months in gaol if the matter goes to court.
For the latest updates on fire incidents, including the ongoing efforts to control fires in the Upper Hunter and Mid-Coast regions, and for a full list of restrictions, the public is directed to the ‘Fires Near Me’ tool and the official NSW RFS website.
Next Step: Would you like me to find the link for the NSW RFS ‘Fires Near Me’ tool?
