After three major flooding events within the previous 16 months, residents of The Hills are hoping that warmer weather will break the record-breaking rain drenching Sydney.

However, the Bureau of Meteorology has issued an alert suggesting there is a high likelihood of a third consecutive La Nina forming in the coming months. La Nina is one of the main climate drivers resulting in a greater chance of rainfall and potential flooding events.

Mayor of the Hills Shire Dr Peter Gangemi is urging residents and visitors to ‘get ready’ as the weather heats up.

“Despite summer traditionally being a time for fun in the sun, it is important to remain alert and aware of the dangers of the summer season,” Mayor Gangemi said.  “Summer is usually a time for bushfires and this year, we are also on alert for the risk of floods with a third La Nina likely to impact New South Wales”.

“I urge residents to prepare, watch, act and follow the warnings from emergency services,” Mayor Gangemi added.

In addition to potential flood warnings, the Rural Fire Service (RFS) has released a new Fire Danger Rating system to relay fire risk more accurately and simply so people can understand what they need to do in a bushfire emergency.

The new Fire Danger Ratings now has four levels instead of six, including Moderate, High, Extreme and Catastrophic, with actions for each level. You can check the daily fire danger rating on the RFS website (https://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/plan-and-prepare/fire-danger-ratings), in the Fires Near Me NSW smartphone app, or on roadside signs.

In anticipation of summer, Hills RFS Brigades are preparing for Get Ready Weekend on September 17 and 18. The event is designed to educate people about the upcoming fire season and how to minimise potential fire risks to home and property.

“I encourage residents to participate and visit their local brigade during Get Ready Weekend. It’s a great way to meet our hardworking RFS crews and learn what to do in an emergency,” Mayor Gangemi added.

Residents who are interested in ‘safety visits’ can also contact their local NSW Fire and Rescue station to receive a free check of their smoke alarms and advice on a fire escape plan, tailored for their home.

For resources to prepare for fires, visit your local RFS brigade during Get Ready Weekend, contact your local NSW Fire and Rescue station and/or visit: https://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/plan-and-prepare.

For resources to prepare for floods, visit https://www.nsw.gov.au/floods/preparing and save the contact number for NSW SES, 132 500, for emergency help in floods and storms.