NSW facing Extreme Fire Danger and 40°C Heat Forecast for Saturday
News Aggregator/Sydney
SYDNEY, Jan 9, 2026 — New South Wales is bracing for its most perilous day of the summer so far, with the NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) and the Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) issuing dire warnings for Saturday, January 10.
A massive heatwave that has been baking the state’s west is set to push toward the coast, bringing “Extreme” fire danger ratings to several regions, including Greater Sydney.
“Extreme” Fire Danger Declared
The NSW RFS has upgraded fire danger ratings to Extreme for the following regions on Saturday:
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Greater Sydney
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Illawarra/Shoalhaven
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Southern Ranges
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Monaro Alpine
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ACT
Under an Extreme rating, the RFS warns that fires will spread so rapidly they will be difficult to control. Residents in these areas are being urged to “take action now” to protect their lives and property.
“These are dangerous fire conditions,” the NSW RFS stated in their latest briefing. “If a fire starts, take immediate action. If you and your property are not prepared to the highest level, your safest option is to go to a safer location well before the fire impacts.”
Record-Breaking Heat and “Monitor Conditions”
Temperatures are expected to peak tomorrow, with Sydney forecast to reach 39°C to 41°C, while western suburbs like Penrith and Richmond could see the mercury climb even higher.
The heat is accompanied by an Extreme Heatwave Warning for the South Coast and Riverina, and a Severe Heatwave Warning for the Metropolitan and Hunter regions.
Of immediate concern is the Mount Lawson fire currently burning in Victoria. The RFS has issued a “Monitor Conditions” alert for Talmalmo and Jingellic on the NSW side of the Murray River.
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Ember Attack: While the main front remains in Victoria, firefighters have already confirmed that embers have crossed the river, sparking small spot fires in NSW.
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Travel Warning: Authorities have explicitly advised residents and holidaymakers not to travel south into Victoriabetween Wymah Ferry Road and Bringenbrong due to the instability of the border fires.
NSW Rural fire Service
https://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/fire-information/fdr-and-tobans
RFS Commissioner’s Call to Action
NSW RFS Commissioner Trent Curtin has emphasized the need for vigilance, noting that the combination of high temperatures and erratic winds creates a “volatile environment.”
“Alertness, mitigation works, and ignition prevention will be critical in keeping people safe,” Commissioner Curtin said. “This is not the day for risk-taking. A single spark in these conditions can threaten entire communities.”
Staying Safe: Saturday Checklist
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Review your Bushfire Survival Plan: Know exactly when you will leave and where you will go.
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Download the App: Use the ‘Hazards Near Me NSW’ app for real-time updates.
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Stay Hydrated: NSW Health advises staying indoors during the peak heat (11 am – 5 pm) and checking on elderly neighbors.
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Total Fire Ban: A Total Fire Ban is likely to be declared for most of the state; ensure all outdoor machinery and fire-pit use is suspended.
Would you like me to check for specific Total Fire Ban declarations for your local council area for tomorrow?
