It is likely that the Gospers Mountain Fire, which continues to burn out of control in all directions through the Wollemi National Park region, is the largest fire this district has ever seen.
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NSW RFS operational officer Gary Hansen said, without delving into the record books, he was confident this fire, which has already burned more than 160,000 hectares, was the largest in Lithgow's history.
"I think you would struggle to find one larger in recorded history," he said.
The previous largest was the 2013 State Mine fire, which burned approximately 56,500 hectares and involved the Blue Mountains and Hawkesbury regions, he said.
"This is three times the size of that," Mr Hansen said.
"The dry conditions have certainly contributed to its spread."
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Bushfire readiness
What you need to do
- If you are threatened by fire, you may not get assistance.
- If you are in these areas and your plan is to leave, or your property is not prepared, leave towards a safer location.
- Safer locations include built up areas, well away from bushland.
- If you are unable to leave, identify a safer location which may be nearby. This may include a cleared area well away from bushland, or an identified Neighbourhood Safer Place www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/nsp
- Avoid bushland areas.
- A southerly change is forecast early on Wednesday morning. This may push the fire in a northerly direction.
If you are threatened by fire
- Do not be in the path of the fire.
- Protect yourself from the heat of the fire. Wear protective clothing and footwear. Cover all exposed skin.
- If the fire impacts, seek shelter in a solid structure to protect yourself from the heat of the fire.
- If your life is at risk, call Triple Zero
