Queenslanders need to be prepared for above average fire risk this year, according to the 2019 Australian Seasonal Bushfire Outlook.
The Bushfire and Natural Hazards Cooperative Research Centre (BNHCRC) recently published its pre-fire season outlook, which takes into account the amount of fuel, as well the existing and forecast weather conditions.
Following on from record fire season in 2018/19 and a very warm and dry start to the year, the east coast of Queensland faces above normal fire potential.
Above normal fire potential is expected in forested areas along the coast south of Rockhampton down to the NSW border, for woodland and grass fuels, inland areas in the south, and a small area west of Mackay.
The Darling Downs and Granite Belt districts are facing severe water shortages as a result of the ongoing drought.
This has the potential to impact the availability of water for fire suppression. The Queensland Fire and Emergency Services have been working closely with relevant local councils and their partners to manage this risk.
Normal fire potential is expected for all other parts of Queensland.
Read the Australian Seasonal Bushfire Outlook here: www.bnhcrc.com.au/hazardnotes/63.
