The Rural Fire Service says 437 homes in the Eurobodalla Shire have been destroyed since last week and fire could again be driven to the coast on Friday, January 10.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
RFS Inspector Kelwyn White said strong westerly winds inland were likely to increase fire activity.
"Warm and windy conditions are predicted and there's still a significant amount of uncontained fires burning from Batemans Bay to the border," she said.
Inspector White said "erratic fire behaviour" could occur when easterly coastal winds mixed with inland westerly winds.
"There's a forecast easterly influence on coastal areas which will moderate conditions," she said.
"The biggest concern is when inland and coastal winds mix."
The southerly is expected to move up the coast this evening.
"It is expected at Bega by about 7pm and Moruya at 9pm," she said.
"This southerly will bring gusty conditions of 40km for a few hours. It will also bring an increase in humidity, which is beneficial."
Within 10km of the coastline, conditions are expected to be kinder, however, Inspector White urged vigilance.
"People need to monitor the conditions," she said.
"People who live in town can remain in place, but need to be ready to enact their bushfire survival plan.
"Residents in more rural and remote areas will see conditions deteriorate throughout the day.
"If you are not mentally and physically prepared to defend your property, you should be ready to move towards a main town."
On Wednesday, the Coondella and Badja fires merged in the Deua National Park. Inspector White said the Badja and Clyde Mountain fires could also converge.
A total of 437 homes in the shire were confirmed destroyed, plus 71 facilities and 686 outbuildings.
So far, 90 percent of the fireground had been assessed.
Fire also damaged 214 homes, 24 facilities and 207 outbuildings. There were 1325 untouched homes on the fireground.
Stay informed via the RFS website of Fires Near Me App.
Police warning
Some shire residents have chosen to board up their windows and install outdoor sensor lights to secure their homes from looters during the summer bushfire crisis.
A Batemans Bay Police spokesman said it was important the community reported any suspicious activity to their nearest police station.
"Police are actively doing patrols, if people report suspicious activity we can address those areas," he said. Evacuees should lock up as they left.
"Secure valuables inside the home and don't leave items inside unattended vehicles," he said.
Report any theft or criminal offences to local police or the Police Assistance Line on 131 444.
The spokesman also warned of potential scammers posing as bushfire welfare agencies or appeals.
"If people are door knocking in the area, confirm their identity and check their credentials," he said. "If you had any doubts contact the relative organisation."
