UPDATE: Residents in the Central Coast region, specifically near Woy Woy, are facing an urgent evacuation as a destructive fire spreads rapidly. Homes have been engulfed, and authorities are urging residents to leave immediately if the route to safety is clear.
The NSW Rural Fire Service issued an emergency warning at 3:30 PM today, December 6, 2023, regarding a bushfire burning in a southerly direction towards Nimbin Road, Glenrock Parade, Lara Street, and Nimala Avenue. “Embers may be blown long distances ahead of the fire front, igniting spot fires that could threaten your home even before the main fire reaches your area,” officials cautioned.
As the situation escalates, Brisbane Water Drive between Woy Woy and Tascott is closed, complicating evacuation efforts. An evacuation center has been set up at the Gosford RSL Club on the Central Coast Highway for those needing assistance.
Residents are strongly advised to stay updated through the Fires Near Me app and to follow emergency services’ guidance. Train services between Gosford and Hornsby are suspended, with Transport for NSW reporting very limited bus services operating amid extensive delays due to road closures.
“A very limited number of buses are running between Hornsby, Woy Woy, and Gosford. Expect significant delays,” the service alert stated.
Health officials have warned individuals with respiratory conditions to stay indoors, close windows, and seek medical help if needed, as smoke blankets the region due to multiple ongoing fires.
A total fire ban is currently in effect across large areas of the state, including the Hunter and central NSW. Authorities are concerned that forecasted thunderstorms could ignite additional fires, with winds reaching up to 90 km/h expected in some locations.
Despite a forecast of cooler temperatures for much of NSW and southern Australia starting Sunday, the heat is anticipated to intensify in northern Australia and Western Australia, raising concerns about exacerbating fire conditions next week.
Residents are urged to prioritize their safety and heed all evacuation orders. The situation remains critical, and updates will continue to be provided as the fire develops.
