Total fire ban for Sydney, with 37C temperatures and risk of bushfires from ‘dry lightning’

A total fire ban is currently in effect across greater Sydney as temperatures are expected to soar to 37°C in the city's west. The Bureau of Meteorology has warned of extreme fire danger due to hot, dry conditions and the possibility of thunderstorms, with minimal rainfall expected.

On Monday, temperatures are predicted to be "well above average," particularly in areas like Mount Druitt, where the mercury is expected to reach 37°C around 2 PM. Other regions from Newcastle to Wollongong will see temperatures ranging from 34°C to 36°C before a change in weather occurs later in the afternoon, potentially bringing damaging winds.