People in Sydney living near bushland were told to prepare for evacuation as the city faces an ‘unprecedented level of bushfire danger,’ according to officials.
Greater Sydney is experiencing ‘catastrophic fire conditions with 90kmh winds, low levels of humidity and 37C temperatures during what could be ‘the most dangerous bushfire week this nation has ever seen.’
The fire could destroy about 100,000 homes, including more than 30,000 in the North Shore. New South Wales was in a state of emergency and the Army was ready to evacuate people.
As of Tuesday morning, there were 57 fires across the state with 28 uncontrolled.
According to NSW Rural Fire Service Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons, 13 in the state are at ‘watch and act status.’
Any fires would spread quickly as the winds are estimated to pick up in the Blue Mountains and reach up to 90kmh.
Authorities have also warned about criminals looting from destroyed houses of heartbroken victims. NSW Police Deputy Commissioner Gary Worboys said thieveries would be investigated, adding: “These communities have suffered enough without individuals stealing what items they have left.”
The Nambucca Heads and Coffs Harbour towns braced for catastrophe as fires are expected to extend to the coast.
“We plan for these sorts of days but we always hope they never come,” Mr. Fitzsimmons said about the necessary preparations.
“We are planned, we are escalated to a heightened level of stand-by and readiness in anticipation of anything that might break out today. All that can be done is being done. All that needs to be done today will be done. We need everybody to do their part.”
Prime Minister Scott Morrison also attempted to calm fears and told Ray Hadley on 2GB radio station: “ust want to assure people, Ray, that everything that can be done is being done.”
He added: “The one mercy in all this is there’s been a few days to prepare and for people to prepare and I trust people have done that.”
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