The Rural Fire Service is urging Lower Hunter residents to postpone hazard reduction burns for the next few days, as warm and windy conditions remain in the region.

The Bureau of Meteorology predicted a high of 23 degrees and north-westerly winds up to 45km/h in Newcastle for Thursday. 

The Bureau forecast similar conditions for Maitland and Cessnock, with Singleton expected to reach 24 degrees. The RFS asked residents not to burn-off between Wednesday and Friday, as a precaution.

“The forecast for high winds means hazard reduction burning cannot be carried out safely,” Lower Hunter RFS Inspector Marty Siemsen said.

“High winds cause erratic fire behaviour and greatly increase the risk of fires breaking through established containment lines, so we are asking that landholders delay burning until the weather improves.

“There are alternatives to burning, including hand clearing, mowing, or slashing areas around key assets on the property, for those landholders concerned about preparing for the upcoming fire season.”

The NSW Rural Fire Service advises residents to monitor the fire and weather situation at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au

Raymond Terrace Fire and Rescue crews, along with the Rural Fire Service, were out in force on Monday to complete hazard reduction burns at Salamander Bay in preparation for the coming summer season. The increased fire danger rating has postponed further hazard reduction in the region.