Australia bushfires: New South Wales declares state of emergency for 7 days

The Australian Fire Service department has declared a state of emergency for seven days on January 2 as the country battles unprecedented bushfires and a record-breaking heatwave. The Premier of the Australian state of New South Wales, Gladys Berejiklian said on Thursday that the emergency would come into effect by the morning of January 3 as the weather conditions are expected to degrade significantly in the coming week while raising the fire danger even further. 

This is the third time NSW has declared a state of emergency in the several months, the last two being in November and December. The previous emergency calls were also for seven days and granted extraordinary powers to the Rural Fire Service. The residents could also be subjected to forced evacuations, road closures along with other necessary means in order to keep the citizens safe. Berejiklian said she wants to be prepared for what could be a 'horrible day on Saturday'. 

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Tourist Leave Zones

The Rural Fire Service department has been updating 'Tourist Leave Zones' where the dangerous conditions could evolve especially for the foreigners. A 'Total Fire Ban' will also be placed on January 3, prohibiting open fires in many areas across Australia. Snowy Monaro, South Coast Bush Fires are among the Tourist Leave Zone while Batlow / Wondalga, Shoalhaven are general 'Leave Zone' according to the fire danger forecast for January 4, 2020. 

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Fire officials have asked the tourists to leave before Saturday while urging the natives to be 'aware and prepare'. As the conditions improved on Thursday after massive fires on Tuesday, it gave a brief window for natives to evacuate before the situation worsens on Saturday. Reportedly nearly seven people died amidst the angry blazes within 24 hours. 

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