A grass and bush fire are causing chaos for motorists travelling on the Pacific Highway, about 5km south of Bulahdelah.
It’s understood both sides of the road will be closed “into the evening” on Thursday 4 December, between The Bucketts Way and Myall River Road, according to the NSW Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS).
Crews are currently trying to contain the 107-hectare blaze.
The fire is being pushed in a south-westerly direction under north-easterly winds.
“We’re advising people to avoid the area, delay your journeys or use an alternative route,” an NSW RFS spokesperson said.
“There are several diversions in place, which are only suitable for light vehicles.
“Heavy vehicles will be parked.
“Smoke in the area may affect visibility, too.
“So, drive to the conditions.”
Diversions include:
- Northbound: The Bucketts Wya, Mill Street, Avalon Road, Wallanbah Road to return to the Pacific Highway
- Southbound: Wallanbah Road, Avalon Road, Mill Street, The Bucketts Way to return to Pacific Highway
WHAT RESIDENTS NEED TO DO
- Fire may impact on your property. Make your final preparations now
- Fill buckets, sinks and bath tubs with water ready to put out spot fires
- Block downpipes and fill your gutters with water to help stop burning embers. Do not get on the roof
- Remove items which can burn from around your home, such as furniture and door mats
- If you have firefighting equipment, get it ready now
- Put on protective clothing made of natural fibres that covers all of your skin. Wear sturdy shoes. Have plenty of drinking water available
- If you are not prepared, your safest option is to leave early
- Those in the area of Myall Creek Road and Myall River Road should Prepare Now
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)
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
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