With record-breaking dry spring conditions and warmer-than-average temperatures expected to continue, large parts of Australia are facing an increased risk of summer bushfires.

Despite widespread heavy rain and floods, large areas of all states have been placed on heightened alert, with the release of the Seasonal Bushfire Outlook for Summer 2023.

Significant rain over the past few years has in fact led to more vegetation growth and difficult conditions to complete hazard reduction burns, according to the National Council for fire and emergency services.

The conditions will continue to dry out fuel loads in areas across Australia, including some affected during the 2019-20 Black Summer season, increasing the risk of large bush and grassfires.

Emergency Management Minister Murray Watt says the outlook is a clear reminder all Australians need to be prepared.

“Compared with the spring outlook, more capital cities are facing increased risk and of course a lot of Aussies moved to new areas post-COVID, which means larger populations that may be less familiar with bushfire and heatwave preparation,” Senator Watt said.

“I urge people to be aware of the local risk, update their bushfire plans and pack emergency and evacuation kits.

A number of improvements had been made in delivering better collaboration between governments and agencies, better access to resources and streamlining support, Senator watt said.

National Council CEO Rob Webb said the increased risk made it important to act.

“Wherever you live, work or visit this summer, know where to find bushfire information, prepare your property, and talk to your family and friends about what you will do in an emergency,” he said.

“Your local fire agency is the perfect place to find out exactly how to stay safe this summer.”