8th January 2003
Early this morning, NSW residents awoke to temperatures
soaring 30°C and above. Illawarra, Shoalhaven and the Southern Ranges were
alerted as areas of catastrophic fire danger by the NSW Rural Fire Service. A
cold front swept through the state of NSW, presenting forceful winds and
thunderstorm movement, however rain has not been forecasted, leaving South
Eastern Australia in its third season of rain deprivation. These weather
conditions triggered lighting, beginning fires along the fringe of NSW as well
as in the forestation area of Western Canberra. They have so far destroyed a
major area of the Alpine National Park situated in Victoria and are proving
difficult to control. They are heading in an Eastern direction; however there
remains little concern for Canberra residents. Extensive fires burn throughout
the Brindabella and Namadgi National Park.
-Olivia Brown, ABC Reporter
-Olivia Brown, ABC Reporter
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| Fire burning in the Brindabella National Park. |
