Sydney hits 33°C, warmest spring start since 1858

A total fire ban has been imposed across Greater Sydney as extreme fire danger rises under hot, windy conditions. Fire authorities have warned that the combination of high temperatures and strong winds creates a tinder‑dry environment that could ignite uncontrolled blazes, prompting the ban to limit all non‑essential outdoor fire activity.

Early September heat is set to sweep eastern Australia, with Brisbane and Sydney forecast to hit potentially record‑early September temperatures. In Sydney, maximum temperatures in the first days of September were already on track to match the city’s midsummer average of 26.4 °C—warmer than any other start to spring since the Observatory Hill station began recording weather in 1858. Meanwhile, snow was expected in southern New South Wales, underscoring the region’s varied weather extremes.

Fire officials urge residents to heed the ban and stay informed through official channels, including the city’s breaking news email, free app, and daily news podcast. The ban remains in effect until conditions improve, with authorities monitoring the situation closely to protect communities and property from the heightened fire risk.