Australia is heading into spring with fire authorities warning communities across several parts of the country to prepare for an elevated bushfire threat.

The latest national seasonal outlook from the Australasian Fire and Emergency Service Authorities Council (AFAC) identifies heightened fire risk across parts of New South Wales, Queensland, Victoria, Tasmania, Western Australia, South Australia and the Northern Territory.

The warning comes as a strong El Niño takes hold across the Pacific. Australia’s Bureau of Meteorology says the climate pattern is firmly established, with the tropical Pacific expected to warm further through spring.

But El Niño is only part of the picture.

In eastern Australia, months of below-average rainfall have left some regions with depleted soil moisture. Meanwhile, parts of central and northern Australia have unusually large amounts of vegetation available to burn after earlier rainfall. Once that vegetation dries, it can provide significant fuel for fast-moving fires.

The Northern Territory faces particular concern, with large areas identified as having elevated fire potential. Parts of NSW and Queensland are also being closely watched, while northeastern Tasmania and sections of Victoria face increased risk following persistent dry conditions.

Authorities stress that an “increased risk” outlook does not mean fires are inevitable. Bushfires can still occur in areas classified as having normal seasonal risk.

The message from emergency officials is therefore simple: prepare before conditions worsen.

Residents in vulnerable areas are being encouraged to understand their local fire danger, clear flammable vegetation around properties, prepare emergency plans and follow official warnings throughout the season.

With spring beginning in September, Australia is being urged not to wait for the first major fire before getting ready.