SKIP TO MAIN CONTENT

Back-burning to continue across NSW

The RFS is making the most of a break in the weather and will continue back-burning operations, and say less smoke will linger over Sydney on Sunday.

Centerpoint Tower disappears into the smoke haze
Smoke shrouding Sydney from backburning operations is expected to clear throughout the morning. (AAP)

2 min read

Published

Source: AAP


Skip to article content

Back-burning operations will continue around Sydney throughout the weekend as authorities capitalise on good weather, but the RFS doesn't expect much of a smoke haze.

Smoke shrouded Sydney as operations began early Saturday in the NSW Blue Mountains and other areas and cleared throughout the morning.

More is planned while there's a "stable atmosphere", RFS commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons told reporters on Saturday afternoon.

"You can very quickly go from too wet, too cold right through to too dry and too dangerous."

Due to recent drier conditions vegetation is ready and able to be burnt and winds aren't forecast to be strong enough to worry the RFS.

News that makes sense

Your trusted source for staying up-to-date with the world around you. Get free daily news updates and analysis, straight to your inbox.

By subscribing, you agree to SBS’s terms of service and privacy policy including receiving email updates from SBS.

But some significant and widespread rain is expected to blow in from the west at the start of the week.

"Getting this burning done now is really important," Mr Fitzsimmons said.

Depending on conditions, the RFS generally has between 20 and 30 days each year in which they can safely and effectively back burn.

There weren't any reports of accidents or incidents associated with Saturday's operation, police said.

Some smoke may settle over Sydney on Sunday morning, but Mr Fitzsimmons said there's little chance of it being heavy or lasting long.


Get SBS News straight to your inbox

Sign up now for daily news from Australia and around the world. You can also subscribe to Insight's weekly newsletter for in-depth features and first-person stories.

By subscribing, you agree to SBS’s terms of service and privacy policy including receiving email updates from SBS.

Follow SBS News

Download our apps

Listen to our podcasts

Get the latest with our News podcasts on your favourite podcast apps.

Watch on SBS

SBS World News

Take a global view with Australia's most comprehensive world news service

Stream now

Watch the latest news videos from Australia and across the world