Media release

Australian Seasonal Bushfire Outlook: Summer 2022

Fire and Rescue

The 2022 Central Australia fire season is under way.

Fuels have dried after significant rain events, which resulted in widespread growth and increased fuel load and continuity. Most of Central Australia has accumulated sufficient fuels for large fires to form, most notably around Alice Springs and parts of the Tanami.

Fire scars in the Lasseter area have contributed to disruption of landscape continuity reducing potential for large fires in that area.

The majority of Central Australia’s seasonal fire potential for the summer period is forecast to be normal. For the Alice Springs and parts of Tanami region, above normal fire potential is forecast including parts of the Macdonnell Ranges, Burt Plain and Finke bioregions.

Southern District Officer Stephen Hunter said “Good opportunities for prescribed burning will present when favourable conditions prevail in the central regions.

“It’s important to stay vigilant as bushfires can occur anytime, as we saw in Alice Springs earlier this month. Everyone should have a bushfire survival plan in place to ensure they have the systems in place to protect themselves, their family and their property.

“Ensure you have firebreaks of at least 4m in place to defend your property and to provide access for firefighters.

“It’s up to all Territorians and visitors alike to monitor conditions, know what the Fire Danger Rating is each day and stay connected to local media, radio stations and websites for important information about bushfires.

Assistant Chief Fire Officer Joshua Fischer said “Extensive prescribed burning operations were undertaken by the NT Fire and Rescue services and Bushfire NT in the northern regions to combat bushfires.

“I would again like to thank all our amazing team of Volunteer, Auxiliary and Career Firefighters along with the Joint Emergency Services Communications Centre operators, who worked tirelessly this season to keep Territorians and businesses safe.” 

For more information on the bushfire outlook visit:

Seasonal Bushfire Outlook Summer 2022: Australia’s national picture of fire potential (afac.com.au)

For Fire Ban information and bushfire advice and warnings visit:

 https://secure.nt.gov.au

All Territorians are encouraged to plan and prepare for the risk of bushfire by going to:

 https://bit.ly/3wyOdwg