Oyster Cove Bushfire Escalates, Prompting Urgent Evacuation Warnings
A significant bushfire is currently raging at Oyster Cove, located outside Medowie in the Port Stephens region, with authorities issuing a critical watch and act alert. The blaze has already consumed approximately 95 hectares of bushland, sending thick smoke and ash billowing toward nearby Raymond Terrace.
Immediate Threats and Evacuation Orders
The New South Wales Rural Fire Service has issued urgent directives for residents in specific areas to evacuate immediately if they are not adequately prepared. If you are in the vicinity of James Road and Coachwood Drive at Medowie, or near the Moffats Swamp Nature Reserve, and lack a solid bushfire survival plan, leaving now is the safest course of action, the RFS emphasised. The fire is actively burning toward Medowie, and conditions are expected to deteriorate, making prompt evacuation essential for safety.
Firefighting Efforts and Current Conditions
Firefighting crews from the NSW Rural Fire Service are on the ground along Oyster Cove Road, situated between Medowie and Tanilba Bay. They are being supported by water bombing aircraft in a concerted effort to contain the flames. Despite these intensive operations, the fire remains only partially controlled, burning through dense bushland along the banks of Saltwater Creek, which flows into the Karuah River.
Fortunately, NSW Police and Ambulance services have confirmed that there have been no reports of injuries related to this incident so far. However, the situation remains fluid and highly dangerous.
Regional Fire Danger and Broader Context
The Hunter region was placed under a high fire danger rating on Thursday, with forecasts indicating that this elevated risk will persist throughout the weekend. In a related development, a total fire ban has been declared in the neighbouring Northern Slopes region, encompassing council areas such as Gunnedah, Gwydir, Inverell, Liverpool Plains, and Tamworth.
This fire is part of a larger pattern of bushfire activity across New South Wales. On Thursday evening, approximately 54 fires were burning statewide, including a major blaze on the Mid North Coast that had ravaged around 389 hectares of national parks bushland at Nerong. That fire was being managed by NSW National Parks and Wildlife crews into the early evening.
Staying Informed and Prepared
Residents are strongly advised to monitor the evolving situation closely. The RFS recommends using the Hazards Near Me app or the Fires Near Me website for real-time updates and alerts. The initial report of this fire came in around 1:20 PM, with it burning south toward the Tilligerry State Conservation Area, highlighting the rapid spread and unpredictable nature of bushfires under current conditions.
As this is a developing story, further updates will be provided as new information becomes available from emergency services and local authorities.
