Almost all NSW homes destroyed in black summer bushfires were within 100 metres of flammable vegetation

New research has validated official risk assessments by showing that nearly all homes lost in New South Wales during the devastating 2019–2020 bushfires were within the 100-meter high-risk buffer zone around vegetation. While the findings support current safety guidelines, scientists caution that rising global temperatures and intensifying fire conditions could soon require expanding these protective distances to safeguard properties. The study highlights a growing challenge for firefighters and urban planners as climate change alters traditional risk zones. Experts warn that without adjustments, more homes may face heightened danger in future fire seasons.

Exclusive: Research confirms official advice about high-risk properties and warns worsening conditions will make more homes unsafeSign up for climate and environment editor Adam Morton’s free Clear Air newsletter hereAlmost every home destroyed in New South Wales during the black summer bushfires of 2019 and 2020 was inside the 100 metre buffer zone used to identify properties most at risk, new research has found.The findings are an endorsement of the risk maps used by authorities, but the research warns that as global heating generates ever-worsening fire conditions firefighters may have to extend the recommended distances between homes and vegetation to keep homes safe.Sign up to get climate and environment editor Adam Morton’s Clear Air column as a free newsletter Continue reading...