A state of emergency has been declared across NSW, as firefighters prepare themselves for deteriorating weather being forecast throughout the state.
Rural Fire Service (RFS) Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons wrote to Premier Barry O'Farrell on Sunday requesting he declare a state of emergency.
Mr O'Farrell, who has since signed the order, said there were concerns weather conditions would deteriorate significantly over the next few days.
"There is potential for a significant and widespread danger to life and property across the State," Mr O'Farrell said in a statement.
"This is not an action taken lightly by either the Commissioner, the Minister or myself, but it's important the Rural Fire Service and other emergency services have the powers and the resources they need to combat this threat.
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"We are planning for the worst but hoping for the best," he said.
The declaration triggers a range of measures, including allowing emergency services to direct the public to evacuate or to order power and gas supplies be shut off.
