EMERGENCY WARNING: Willi Willi Rd Fire

Current Situation

• The fire is burning in Willi Willi National Park and Boonanghi Nature Reserve and is moving in multiple directions due to erratic fire behaviour.
• The fire is burning to the west Toorumbee Rd. Westerly winds have caused the fire to spread across Toorumbee Rd.
• A southerly change is expected this evening which will see the fire move in a more northerly direction.
• Strong winds are causing erratic fire activity. This may cause spot fires ahead of the main fire front.
• Firefighters and aircraft are working in the area to protect properties.

What you need to do

TOORUMBEE RD

• If you are in the area of Toorumbee Rd area your life is at risk. Seek shelter in a solid structure such as a house. Do not be caught in the open in the path of the fire.
• If you are east of Moparrabah along Willi Willi Rd and the path is clear head east towards Kempsey.
• If you planned to visit the area, or live in the area but are away from home, do not return.
• Watch out for emergency services personnel and follow their directions.

WILLAWARRIN

• If you are in Willawarrin you are at risk. Leave now if the path is clear along Armidale Rd south towards Kempsey.
• Do not wait. Roads may become blocked or access may change, smoke may reduce visibility.
• Act now to protect yourself and your family. Conditions may get worse quickly. Leaving at the last minute is deadly.

TOOROKA AND HICKEYS CREEK

• A southerly change is expected this evening which will see the fire move in a more northerly direction.
• Residents in Toorooka and Hickeys Creek may be affected by smoke and embers.
• If you are in the area of Toorooka, and Hickeys Creek you are advised to prepare now as the southerly wind change may push the fire north.
• Fire may impact on your property. Make your final preparations now.
• Remove items which can burn from around your home, such as furniture and door mats.
• If you are not prepared, your safest option is to leave early.

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.
• Keep moving away from the fire if possible and if your building catches fire, go to an area within the building which has already burnt.
• 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).