Well above average temperatures are predicted with winds up to 30km/h in some parts.

Temperatures are set to reach 16 degrees in Lithgow, with a top of 17 in Bathurst, and Mudgee 19, Orange 15, Young 18, Parkes 21, and 22 in Dubbo, Forbes and Wellington.

NSW Rural Fire Service Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons urged land managers and property owners to carefully consider conditions before burning off.

“Given the prevailing dry conditions, it is also vital that landholders only burn off when it is safe to do so,” he said.

“Ensure they have proper and functioning firefighting equipment on hand, make sure they follow the rules and obtain a free fire permit, even if they have been carrying out burns for years.”

Heavy fines apply for the unsafe use of fire or if a fire escapes – landholders who fail to notify firefighters and neighbours face fines of up to $5500 and/or 12 months jail while escaped fires attract penalties of up to $110,000 and/or five years prison.