A major bushfire emergency unfolded on the New South Wales Central Coast on Tuesday, with multiple homes confirmed destroyed and residents forced to flee as flames tore through bushland. The fast-moving blaze, which ignited under severe fire conditions, sent plumes of smoke across Sydney, casting an eerie orange haze over the city.
Fire Erupts and Rapidly Escalates
The fire was first reported near Wisemans Ferry Road at Cabbage Tree, within the Central Coast local government area, just before 1:30pm on Tuesday. Fueled by strong winds, high temperatures, and dry vegetation, the fire escalated rapidly to an emergency warning level. The NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) issued urgent alerts for residents in the areas of Cabbage Tree, Spencer, and Mangrove Mountain to seek shelter immediately as it was too late to leave.
Fire and Rescue NSW, alongside RFS crews, launched a massive aerial and ground assault. Water-bombing aircraft, including large air tankers, were deployed to douse the flames, while firefighters on the ground worked to establish containment lines and protect properties. Despite their efforts, the fire proved destructive. An RFS spokesperson confirmed that several homes had been lost, though the exact number was still being assessed as night fell.
Community Impact and Evacuation Orders
The fire's impact on the local community was severe and immediate. Residents described terrifying scenes as the fire front approached. One local, who evacuated from Cabbage Tree, recounted the speed of the blaze, stating the sky turned black before the fire reached their property. Evacuation centres were swiftly established at East Gosford and Castle Hill to accommodate those forced from their homes.
Authorities warned that the situation remained volatile. The fire generated its own weather system, creating dangerous and unpredictable conditions for both residents and firefighters. Smoke from the massive blaze drifted south, blanketing parts of Sydney in thick smoke and reducing air quality significantly. Health authorities advised people with respiratory conditions to stay indoors and avoid strenuous activity.
Ongoing Response and Weather Concerns
As of Tuesday evening, the fire had burnt through more than 450 hectares. While some emergency warnings were later downgraded, the RFS cautioned that the fire was not yet under control and could threaten homes again if conditions worsened. Firefighters remained on high alert, working through the night to strengthen containment lines.
The bushfire crisis comes as New South Wales endures a period of heightened fire danger. A total fire ban was in place for several regions, including the Greater Sydney area, due to hot, dry, and windy weather. This early-season emergency has sparked concerns about a long and difficult summer ahead for fire services across the state. The incident serves as a stark reminder for residents in bushfire-prone areas to have their survival plans ready.
Investigations into the cause of the Cabbage Tree fire are ongoing. The community now faces the daunting task of recovery, with support services mobilising to assist those who have lost their homes and possessions.
