Is there a total fire ban in NSW today? Yes – total fire bans are in place across all of NSW today Wednesday November 27, 2025, with catastrophic fire danger around Dubbo and extreme fire danger for Sydney, Hunter, Illawarra, Shoalhaven and Riverina.
New South Wales is facing its most dangerous fire weather conditions of the season today, with the Bureau of Meteorology issuing catastrophic fire danger ratings for the lower central west plains including Dubbo, and extreme ratings across much of the state including greater Sydney.
Where is the catastrophic fire danger today?
Catastrophic fire danger (highest level):
- Lower central west plains
- Dubbo and surrounding areas
Extreme fire danger:
- Greater Sydney area
- Greater Hunter region
- Illawarra
- Shoalhaven
- Riverina
What does catastrophic fire danger mean?
Catastrophic fire danger is the highest level on the fire danger rating scale. It means:
- Weather conditions make any fire-related activities inadvisable
- Any fires that start will spread quickly and act erratically
- Fires are likely to get out of control
- These are the most dangerous fire conditions possible
- If a fire starts, lives and homes will be at risk
Under catastrophic fire danger conditions, the safest place to be is away from bushland areas. The NSW Rural Fire Service warns that if you’re in a high-risk area, leaving early is the only safe option.
Is there a total fire ban in Sydney today?
Yes, total fire bans are in place for Sydney and all surrounding areas today. The NSW Rural Fire Service has issued total fire bans across the entire state due to extreme to catastrophic fire danger conditions.
What can’t you do during a total fire ban in NSW?
Under today’s total fire ban, you cannot:
- Light any fires in the open (including campfires and BBQs using solid fuel)
- Use solid fuel BBQs or pizza ovens
- Use welding equipment or angle grinders outdoors
- Burn off vegetation or rubbish
- Use fireworks or sky lanterns
- Use any equipment that may produce sparks
Gas and electric BBQs may be used under strict conditions – check with NSW RFS for specific guidance.
Why is the fire danger so high in NSW today?
Three factors are combining to create extreme to catastrophic fire conditions:
- Very hot temperatures – mid to high 30s across eastern NSW, low 40s in northern areas
- Strong winds – damaging gusts wrapping around low pressure troughs
- Dry conditions – low humidity and dry vegetation
This combination means any spark can quickly become an uncontrollable fire.
What temperature is it in Sydney today?
Sydney is forecast to reach the mid to high 30s today, with some areas potentially hitting 40°C. The greater Hunter region and northern NSW could see temperatures in the low 40s.
These extreme temperatures combined with strong winds and low humidity create perfect conditions for rapid fire spread.
What should I do on a catastrophic fire danger day?
If you live in a bushfire risk area:
- Leave early – this is the safest option on catastrophic days
- Don’t wait to see if a fire starts
- Have your bushfire survival plan ready
- Know where you will go if you leave
- Monitor conditions constantly
Everyone should:
- Avoid any activities that could start a fire
- Report any fires immediately: 000
- Stay informed via NSW RFS and BOM warnings
- Keep phones charged
- Have emergency kit ready
- Clear gutters of leaves and debris
- Move flammable items away from buildings
Is it safe to use a BBQ today in NSW?
Only gas or electric BBQs can be used, and only under strict conditions:
- Must be in properly maintained condition
- Must be on a clear, non-flammable surface
- Must be constantly attended
- Must have adequate water supply or fire extinguisher nearby
- Check NSW RFS guidelines before use
When in doubt, don’t light it. One spark today could become a catastrophic fire.
When will fire danger reduce in NSW?
Fire danger conditions are expected to ease later Wednesday evening as temperatures cool and a wind change moves through. However, total fire bans remain in place for the full day.
Check the Bureau of Meteorology and NSW Rural Fire Service for updates throughout the day at bom.gov.au and rfs.nsw.gov.au.
Are there other weather warnings for NSW today?
Yes, in addition to catastrophic fire danger:
- Damaging wind warnings for south-east NSW, ACT, central and southern ranges
- Severe thunderstorm risk bringing giant hail and destructive winds
- Power outage risk from strong winds bringing down trees and power lines
This is a complex and dangerous weather situation. Stay informed and follow all advice from emergency services.