A total fire ban has been announced for regions in central NSW.

The NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) declared the ban for the Greater Hunter and North Western regions from Monday due to hot, dry and windy conditions.

“No fires may be lit in the open and all fire permits are suspended during a total fire ban,” NSW RFS said.

Those conditions have resulted in an “extreme” fire danger rating for the Greater Hunter, including Cessnock, Dungog, Lake Macquarie, Maitland, Muswellbrook, Newcastle, Port Stephens, Singleton and Upper Hunter.

Those residents have been urged to “take action now to protect your life and property”.

“ If a fire starts, take immediate action ,” NSW RFS said.

“If you and your property are not prepared to the highest level, go to a safer location well before the fire i

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