Despite overnight rain, the Narran Lake’s Hudson Fire is continuing its path of destruction, having burnt more than 19,000 hectares. A hot and windy day is expected to push the firegrounds further towards Grawin.

With around 15 fire trucks on site and another 10 on the way, firefighters, heavy plant and water bombing aircraft will once again be working across the fireground today in an effort to contain the fire.

“The main focus is trying to keep the fire from further impacting Glengarry and potential future impacts into Grawin,” North West RFS District Manager David Nicholson said. 

Crews from Coolah, Coonamble, Delroy, Gulgong and Dubbo have also joined in firefighting efforts. (Supplied)

Yesterday afternoon residents of Glengarry were urged to evacuate to Lightning Ridge, before being instructed it was too late to leave for the remaining residents only hours later. Later in the evening, Grawin residents were also urged to evacuate. 

“There’s a number of residents who went into the evacuation centre or to stay with family. There are still some residents that are out there protecting their properties,” Mr Nicholson said.

“Most people have left under our advice.”

Mr Nicholson described yesterday’s firefighting experience as ‘the toughest day of my life to date’.

“I am amazed at what the Walgett shire has done. (They’ve) been going flat out 24/7 since Thursday. NPWS crews have been going just as hard,” Mr Nicholson said. 

“I’m in awe of how much effort they put in with little reward.”

There are reports of properties being impacted in the Glengarry area and Building Impact Assessment Teams will be in the area from today to assess loss and damage.

An evacuation centre has been opened at the Lightning Ridge Bowling Club, on the corner of Morilla and Agate Streets. 

Yesterday’s storm also saw a fire ignited near Brewarrina which burnt 4110 hectares, and is now under control. 

A total fire ban is in place for Bogan, Coonamble, Gilgandra, Warren, Walgett and Warrumbungle shires.

Regular updates and safety advice can be found here.