Tinderbox

More than 130 fires are burning across New South Wales as dangerous fire conditions remain prevalent across much of southern Australia.

A total state-wide fire ban is in effect across NSW, with a catastrophic rating in place for the Illawarra, Shoalhaven, Southern Ranges and Riverina. Many other areas are experiencing extreme danger levels.

The mercury skyrocketed above 40 degrees this afternoon, accompanied by strong winds and humidity in the single digits but relief is on the way.

A southerly change has hit the far south coast, with the cooler air expected to reach Sydney at midnight.

------------------------------------------------------- ABC News online

We have our Bushfire Emergency Survival Plan in place. Eldest son is to catch the horses and put them on the float. Youngest son is to round up the cats and dog and put them in the 4WD. Son 1 & 2 are then to leave with the animals and a few irreplaceable valuables and a change of clothes for everyone (that's all sitting in a suitcase near the door.) And their computers of course :)
I'll stay to put out spot fires for as long as I can.

Thankfully nothing has happened yet. Just an insanely hot afternoon with blustery dry winds. But every siren you hear (and there have been a few this afternoon) makes your blood run cold.

Hoping all the Blippers down on the south coast, the Tasman Peninsula in Tassie and around Cooma are all okay.