The ACT Emergency Services Agency (ESA) has issued a fresh warning for Canberrans to remain on high alert, following a severe heatwave that triggered the territory's first total fire ban in six years. While the immediate extreme danger has passed, authorities stress the risk is far from over, with thunderstorms forecast for the coming days.
Heatwave Sparks First Total Fire Ban Since 2020
The 24-hour total fire ban was enacted as temperatures in Canberra soared to 39 degrees Celsius on January 8 and 9. Similar bans were in place for Sydney, the Illawarra, and the far south coast. Although the ACT ban concluded on Saturday, January 10, a government spokeswoman cautioned that last week's severe conditions could be a precursor for the summer ahead.
"Last week's conditions may be a sign of what's ahead, and that's why it's so important that we all stay prepared," the spokeswoman said. Since January 1, firefighters have detected and extinguished more than five fires within the ACT. This includes four blazes in the remote areas of Namadgi National Park last week, which burned through more than 11 hectares of land only accessible by helicopter or boat.
Community Vigilance Crucial as Weather Shifts
Residents are now being urged to monitor changing conditions closely, with the Bureau of Meteorology forecasting likely thunderstorms for Wednesday and Thursday afternoons and evenings. Wind gusts could reach up to 25km/h, with a moderate fire danger rating in place for both days.
Minister for Fire and Emergency Services, Marisa Paterson, praised the community's cooperation during the recent hot spell and the Summernats event, which she said played a vital role in preventing major incidents. "Your actions helped keep our community safe and allowed everyone to enjoy the warmer conditions. But now is not the time to become complacent," Dr Paterson stated.
She highlighted that lightning strikes had ignited several fires in remote bushland last week. Through the combined use of aviation, technology, and specialist firefighting, all fires were spotted early and contained.
ACT Crews Deploy to Assist Victorian Bushfire Effort
Even as they monitor local conditions, ACT emergency personnel are providing critical support interstate. Commissioner Wayne Phillips announced that more than 20 additional personnel would be sent to Victoria, joining 28 already deployed this month to combat devastating bushfires.
"We wish them safe travels and a safe return home, and we send our thoughts to everyone in Victoria who is being impacted," Commissioner Phillips said. He commended the extraordinary effort of staff and volunteers who had sacrificed holiday time with family to protect communities.
Authorities are directing residents to the ESA website for practical emergency preparation tips and encourage people to use the online Bushfire Map to check if their home is in a prone area.
