SUMMER has arrived, yet with recent hot weather one could be forgiven for thinking it was already here.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Tuesday will see high temperatures return and a total fire ban reinstated across the district, with the Bureau of Meterology predicting a top of 44 degrees for Dubbo.
In other locations across the region, Parkes is predicted to reach 43 degrees, Wellington 44 degrees, Nyngan 47 degrees and Mudgee 40 degrees.
Bathurst and Orange will fare a little better with 36 and 34 degrees predicted in those locations.
Hot weather, strong winds and lightning strikes combined to cause problems for RFS crews across the region over the weekend and following a brief respite on Monday those conditions are set to worsen again.
Orana RFS acting district manager Bronwyn Waters said after a busy weekend, local crews are on alert.
"We had a substantial fire over the weekend at Black Rock east of Wellington which is now contained and crews will continue to monitor the area," she said.
"Ahead of another wave of hot temperatures and strong winds most commands will be on very high fire danger alert and all crews are on standby."
Aircraft are set to do reconnaissance across the Western region to monitor the situation and Ms Waters said that further assistance is available if needed.
"We have an RJ or large air tanker on standby at Dubbo airport ready with crew if needed, and we have also contacted heavy plant operators to see who is available."
Chifley-Lithgow and Canobolas Zone Commands are also on high alert ahead of the warmer weather.
"The difference this year compared to the past few years is due to the good rain we've had recently and the large fuel load, which is much bigger than previous years due to the drought.
"Grass is drying off quickly after a warmer than normal November and while it will be a challenging period, we are prepared.
"Brigades across most zones are effectively on standby and we are encouraging everyone to be aware of conditions and adhere to any fire bans in place."
With large fuel loads and an increase in hotter than average temperatures, RFS crews across the Central and Far West could see a lot of action over the coming months, however with the BOM predicting a wetter than normal summer, conditions shouldn't be as fierce as last summer.
We depend on subscription revenue to support our journalism. If you are able, please subscribe here. If you are already a subscriber, thank you for your support.