Almost all NSW homes destroyed in black summer bushfires were within 100 metres of flammable vegetation
Summary
New research shows almost all homes destroyed in New South Wales during the 2019-2020 bushfires were within 100 metres of flammable plants. This supports the current safety maps but warns that as climate change worsens fire risks, greater distances between homes and vegetation may be needed.Key Facts
- During the 2019-2020 black summer bushfires, 94% of destroyed homes in NSW were less than 100 metres from flammable vegetation.
- The 100 metre buffer zone is used in official maps to identify homes most at risk of bushfires.
- More than 3,000 homes were lost across Australia in those fires, with 33 people dead and nearly 3 billion native animals affected.
- Bushfire danger ratings combine weather factors like temperature, wind, and dryness to show fire risk levels.
- On days of extreme or catastrophic fire danger, homes farther than 100 metres from vegetation also burned.
- Researchers warn that with global heating, current safety distances might not be enough to protect homes.
- NSW Rural Fire Service says homes in high-risk areas should be built to stronger fire standards.
- Some people living in bushfire-prone areas were not aware of the fire risk around their homes.
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