The Australasian Fire and Emergency Services Authority Council (AFAC) has released the latest bushfire outlook for Summer 2024.

Northern Australia has received average to above average rainfall recently and a forecast for a wet December is expected to add to grass fuel loads.

Fire risk is increased in long-unburnt areas in the southern half of the Northern Territory, stretching north of the Barkly Highway and to the Queensland border.

Fires currently burning in the Savanna management zone are expected to ease with monsoon conditions commencing.

“Once again, it’s been a busy Top End Fire Danger Period, with the Top End crews attending more than 2800 bush and grass fires, as well as over 7000 other fires and emergency incidents,” said Acting Chief Fire Officer Stephen Hunter.

“We thank all our career, auxiliary, and volunteer firefighters for their ongoing dedication and tireless work in keeping our communities safe.”

As the southern region bushfire season commences, firefighting preparedness and response activities have shifted focus to the Barkly and Central Australia regions.

The Northern Territory Fire and Rescue Service (NTFRS) urges all Territorians in the Barkly and Central Australia regions to be vigilant, prepared, and proactive in mitigating the impact of bushfires.

“Prepare your property by clearing vegetation and maintaining fire breaks around your home, as well as around your property. Ensure they are at least 4 metres wide and do not have any vegetation higher than 50mm.”

Acing Chief Fire Officer Hunter also highlighted the importance of developing a Bushfires Survival Plan.

“Sit down with your family or household to make a Bushfire Survival Plan or review your existing plan. Make sure you are prepared to act quickly if a bushfire threatens your home.”

With the landscape well primed for bushfires, NTFRS urges all Territorians to stay alert and be ready to respond to warnings and advice from your local fire services and Bushfires NT.

For more information on the AFAC Seasonal Bushfire Outlook, visit https://www.afac.com.au/auxiliary/publications/seasonal-outlook

For fire ban information, bushfire advice and warnings, and a Bushfire Survival Plan template, visit https://securent.nt.gov.au