Bushfire near Sydney suburbs

An Australian bushfire burned through more than 2430 hectares in Sydney’s south-west threatening residents in the Menai and Barden Ridge area.

Strong winds pushed large flames north and east towards suburban streets on Sunday afternoon, local time, as 15 firefighting and reconnaissance aircraft joined the operation.

The fire was downgraded from an Emergency level to Watch and Act last night.

“Firefighters are taking advantage of easing conditions,” the New South Wales Rural Fire Service said at 5.51pm.

“Firefighters are working to bring the fire under control.”