Source: NSW Rural Fire Service

A bush fire is burning south of Booral Road and on both sides of the Pacific Highway. The fire is over 2685 hectares and is not yet controlled.

Smoke drifted across the Lower Hunter, Central Coast and south to Sydney overnight, this smoke is expected to clear as the winds increase through the morning.

Current Situation

The fire is burning south of Booral Road in the vicinity of Crawford River along Emu Creek Road.
The fire is also burning on both sides of the Pacific Highway, northwest of Nerong.
Firefighters supported by waterbombing aircraft worked through the night to establish containment lines.
Today, Saturday 6 December, hot and windy weather is forecast with Extreme fire danger and a Total Fire Ban for the area. Fire activity is likely to increase today - residents should be prepared to take action.

What you need to do

Crawford River and The Branch

Those in the area of Crawford River and The Branch should monitor conditions.
Stay alert and monitor your surroundings.
Check and follow your Bush Fire Survival Plan. If you do not have a plan, decide what you will do if the situation changes. Leaving early is your safest option.
If you planned to visit the area or live in the area but are away from home, do not return.

Nerong and Myall River Road

Those in the area of Nerong and Myall River Road should monitor conditions.
North westerly winds are predicted across the day which will push fires in a south easterly direction towards Nerong and Myall River Road.
Stay alert and monitor your surroundings.
Check and follow your Bush Fire Survival Plan. If you do not have a plan, decide what you will do if the situation changes. Leaving early is your safest option.
If you planned to visit the area or live in the area but are away from home, do not return.

If you are threatened by fire

If the fire impacts, seek shelter in a solid structure such as a house to protect yourself from the heat of the fire.
Bring pets indoors and restrain them, close all doors and windows and turn off air conditioners, keep water running if possible.
Shelter in a room on the other side of the building from the approaching fire, and one that has water and a clear exit out of the house.
Monitor both inside and outside for small fires and burning embers and turn sprinklers on if you have them.
Be careful outdoors after the fire has passed as trees can be unstable and fall.
If your life is at risk, call Triple Zero (000).

Road Closures

One lane in both directions of the M1 Pacific Highway has been reopened between Nabiac and 12 Mile Creek.
Booral Road and numerous roads in the area are closed. Roads may be closed without warning.
North westerly winds are predicted today, Saturday 6 December, which may see the M1 Pacific Highway closed at short notice.
For information on road closures, check Live Traffic NSW.
Watch out for emergency services personnel and follow their directions.

Other Information

Stay up to date on bush fires in your area by checking Hazards Near Me, the RFS website, listening to your local radio station, or by calling the RFS Bush Fire Information Line on 1800 679 737.
If you have a respiratory condition and may be affected by smoke, activate your health management plan and seek medical advice if necessary. Take precautions, such as staying indoors and closing windows.
For information on road closures, check Live Traffic NSW.
Monitor weather conditions and weather warnings at Bureau of Meteorology.
For information on temporary school closures in your area, check School Operational Status.


RFS Current Bushfires