East coast faces fire threat after dry winter
Parts of far southern NSW received just 20 per cent of normal rainfall, and El Niño threatens bushfire conditions.
Australia's east coast is entering spring with historically low soil moisture after a bone-dry winter. Far southern NSW received only 20 per cent of average winter rainfall.
Fire-scarred areas of Victoria got one-third of their typical amount. Brisbane has had only 1mm of rain so far in September, and Rockhampton none at all.
Mallacoota burned in the 2019-2020 Black Summer fires. It has recorded just 12mm in early September against a normal 73.7mm.
The Bureau of Meteorology forecasts below-average rainfall across the south and east through spring. October is expected to be drier than usual.
El Niño is strengthening, and though it can induce rainfall, daytime temperatures are climbing.
- 20 per cent of normal
- Far southern NSW rainfall
- 12mm against normal 73.7mm
- Mallacoota September rainfall
- 1mm
- Brisbane September rainfall
- plus 2.51
- El Niño index reading
Why it mattersDry conditions and warm temperatures are increasing bushfire risk in eastern Australia.
AustraliaCommunities across NSW and Victoria face elevated fire danger through the coming months, affecting everything from property safety to power and water systems.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 6 d ago
