When is bushfire season in Australia?
Bushfire season in Australia varies by region. In southern Australia, it usually runs through summer and autumn, from about December to March, while in the north it peaks during the dry season in winter and spring.
In southeastern states such as Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania, the most dangerous fire weather usually occurs in summer, when hot, dry winds blow from the interior.
In New South Wales and southern Queensland, fire seasons often begin in spring and continue into summer. In the tropical north, fires are most common in the dry season, from about June to November.
Fire danger ratings
Australia uses a fire danger rating system with levels of Moderate, High, Extreme and Catastrophic. On high-risk days, total fire bans are declared, banning outdoor fires.
Bushfire seasons are getting longer and more severe in many areas, partly due to climate change. The 2019 and 2020 Black Summer fires began unusually early.
Australians living in fire-prone areas are encouraged to prepare bushfire survival plans. Many fires are started by lightning, while others are caused by people, power lines or machinery.