Firefighters will work into Tuesday night to bring a bushfire burning in the Royal National Park under control, with Helensburgh residents and Princes Highway motorists warned of smoky conditions.
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The NSW Rural Fire Service says the 96-hectare fire is burning off McKell Avenue, about 1.5km east of Waterfall.
However, the RFS has warned backburning planned for Tuesday evening will bring fire activity closer to Waterfall and the suburb’s train station.
“Properties are not currently at risk but people in the area of Waterfall may experience smoke,” the RFS said in a statement.
Crews will remain on the fireground throughout the night.
Ninety firefighters – assisted by waterbombing helicopters and the large air tanker, Thor – worked to slow the spread of the fire on Tuesday.
“People in Waterfall, commuters on the Princes Highway and potentially residents as far as Campbelltown, Helensburgh and surrounding areas may notice smoke from backburning efforts,” the RFS said.
“If you have asthma or a lung condition, reduce outdoor activities if smoke levels are high. If shortness of breath or coughing develops, take your reliever medicine or seek medical advice.”
“Some trails in the Royal National Park are closed, including the Uloola Falls track, the Couranga walking track and the Forest Path walking track. Avoid the area.”
McKell Avenue remains closed until further notice.
Motorists are advised to exercise caution in the area as smoke may reduce visibility.
Meanwhile, police have called for a cyclist to come forward as part of investigations into the cause of the Waterfall fire.
Police want to speak to the rider who stopped and spoke to a driver about a fire on McKell Avenue at Waterfall about 3pm on Monday – about the time when the fire is believed to have broken out.
Anyone with information should contact Sutherland Police Station on 9542 0899.
RFS ADVICE
Residents in the Waterfall area should monitor conditions. Properties are not currently at risk. You may experience smoke.
Check and follow your bush fire survival plan. If you do not have a plan, decide what you will do if the situation changes. Leaving early is your safest option.
The Princes Highway is open however people travelling on the road should be alert as smoke may reduce visibility.