The Northern Slopes, New England and the North West zones are bracing for a very high fire danger today – a brief reprieve from severe conditions which were experienced in the Moree and Narrabri areas yesterday.

As the temperatures nudge 40 degrees, the RFS is on alert with a helicopter and Rapid Aerial Response Team (RART) on standby at Tamworth Airport should an emergency unfold.

“We thank everyone for their efforts through the trying conditions last weekend and if they continue that vigilance through these very trying times to lessen the risk, it will makes things easier,” RFS Superintendent Allyn Purkiss said.

“Things like hot works (like grinding and welding), if they can put it off to next week when it’s a bit cooler then that will ease the risk.”

The preliminary forecasts for tomorrow don’t look good for fire crews, with hot weather expected to worsen under strong winds, which could see severe fire dangers imposed and a total fire ban enforced.

“There is the possibility of a total fire ban on Sunday,” Superintendent Purkiss said.

“As per normal, wind is our biggest concern and lightning, and they are predicting some lightning.”

Authorities are urging anyone who spots an unattended fire to contact triple zero.

* Wrap-up of the weather and new water rules, page 10 of today's Leader