Current Situation

• Thunderstorms moved across the fireground late yesterday afternoon, initially causing some erratic fire behaviour and lightning strikes.
• Landholders are encouraged, where safe to do so, to inspect their properties for new ignitions and report new fires to Triple Zero (000).
• Overnight rain has fallen across most of the fireground with reports of heavy falls in the north and the east.
• Crews will today identify containment lines and use the more favouarble weather to bring the fire undercontrol.
• Crews are extinguishing the fire as it exits the Pilliga Forest and enters farmland.
• The Newell Highway does remain closed between Narrabri and Coonabarrabran, however firefighters will concentrate efforts this morning to ensure the road is safe so that it can ben opened to traffic as soon as possible.

Baan Baa, Willala, Goolhi, Rocky Glen, Stannix Park, Jacks Creek, Bohena Creek and Wynella – Monitor conditions

• If you are in the area of Baan Baa, Willala, Goolhi, Rocky Glen, Jack Creek, Bohena Creek, Stannix Park and Wynella, stay alert and monitor your surroundings.
• Stay alert and monitor your surroundings.
• Watch out for emergency services personnel and follow their directions.
• This means looking out for burning embers, changes in wind direction and smoke. Watch for signs of fire in your area.
• Know what you will do if the fire impacts on where you are. Identify a safer location in case the situation changes. This may include a well cleared area or a solid structure such as a home.
• If you are not prepared to the highest level, leaving early is the safest option.

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).

Evacuation Centres

The following evacuation centres are open and accept companion animals:

• The Crossing Theatre, 117 Tibbereena Street, Narrabri.
• Gunnedah PCYC, View St, Gunnedah

Smoke

• Smoke from this fire has settled across a broad area, from Coonamble to the west and Tamworth to the east of the fire, and as far south as Dubbo.
• If you have a respiratory condition which may be worsened by smoke, activate your health management plan and seek medical advice if necessary. Take precautions, such as staying indoors and closing windows.
• For advice, check NSW Health – Bush fire smoke and health.

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.
• For assistance with large animal safer places, please contact Local Land Services on 0407 940 970.
• For information on road closures, check Live Traffic NSW.
• Monitor weather conditions and weather warnings at Bureau of Meteorology.
• For information on temporary school closures in your area, check School Operational Status.

The next update on this fire will be issued by 20/12/2023 16:00 or if the situation changes.