The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) issued a fire weather forecast late Thursday afternoon highlighting the fire danger risks for the region over the next four days. 

Gladstone Region Mayor Matt Burnett said residents were strongly encouraged to be mindful of the increased fire risk over the weekend. 

“With hot, dry conditions and increased daytime temperatures, residents are encouraged to be on alert and aware of the elevated fire dangers,” Councillor Burnett said. 

“Our region is in the grips of drought, and with current weather conditions, any small spark has the potential to be highly dangerous.”

The BOM fire weather forecast has predicted daytime temperatures reaching 33-39 degrees Celsius today, 30-36 on Saturday, 30-35 on Sunday and low to mid-30s on Monday. 

Hot and sunny conditions are expected with 15 to 20km/h winds early tomorrow and Sunday while 15 to 25km/h winds are predicted for Monday. 

Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) has cancelled fire permits across the Gladstone Region however currently, there is no local fire ban in place. 

Residents who see suspicious activity, excessive smoke or fire, are urged to immediately call 000. 

Find information about disaster planning, preparation, response and recovery on Council’s RegionWatch dashboard at http://regionwatch.gladstone.qld.gov.au/ or view the Get Ready Queensland website at www.getready.qld.gov.au/