Why Southern Australia Faces Higher Bushfire Risk This Winter — and How Thermal Drone Technology Can Help
As we move into the cooler months, you might expect bushfire risk to ease — but this winter, Southern Australia is facing an unusually high fire danger. According to the Bureau of Meteorology’s Climate Hazards Outlook (3 July 2025), coastal and southern South Australia and much of Victoria are experiencing heightened fire risk, even during what’s traditionally considered the off-season.
What’s Driving the Increased Risk?
The heightened bushfire risk this winter is driven by a combination of persistent dry conditions across Southern Australia, Victoria, and Tasmania, along with an abundance of dry vegetation in both grasslands and forested areas.
Other threats are significantly below-average soil moisture levels in southern and western regions, and a forecast of warmer-than-average temperatures across most of the country from July to September 2025. Together, these factors create an environment highly conducive to fire ignition and spread, even during the traditionally cooler months.
These factors are leading to drier landscapes and faster ignition potential, especially in areas that typically would not see high fire risk in winter.
The Role of Thermal Drone Technology in Bushfire Management
With fire risk elevated earlier in the year, proactive monitoring and fast response are more important than ever. That’s where thermal drone technology becomes an invaluable tool.
Thermal drones can detect subtle temperature variations on the ground, allowing early identification of smouldering embers or flare-ups before they become visible. This early hotspot detection is crucial to rapid response.
In addition, thermal drones provide efficient surveillance in remote or rugged terrain, enabling safe and thorough coverage of areas that are otherwise difficult or dangerous for field workers to access.
Real-time thermal imaging capabilities give emergency crews and land managers immediate data to make informed decisions and prioritise response efforts effectively.
After a fire, these drones are also valuable tools for post-fire assessment. Helping map burn coverage, identify residual heat, and monitor re-ignition risks to support recovery and future mitigation strategies.
How Rencon Supports High-Risk Regions with Thermal Technology
We are actively utilising our thermal drone capabilities across high-risk areas in Western Victoria and Southern Australia. With two offices based in Western Victoria, our experienced drone teams are well-positioned to support local councils, landowners, and emergency services.
Our pilots are trained in thermal surveillance and fire mitigation techniques, enabling efficient mobilisation to monitor smouldering hotspots, assess fuel loads, and provide real-time situational awareness across rugged or remote terrain.
By combining our skilled on-ground team with mastered aerial technology, we help reduce fire risk and protect assets in areas vulnerable to this season’s elevated fire danger.
A Smarter, Safer Approach to Fire Risk
With above-average fire potential expected in southern regions this winter, incorporating thermal drone surveillance into preparedness and response plans can significantly reduce risk to your land and the environment.
The 2025 Climate Hazards Outlook makes it clear: the fire season is no longer confined to summer, and technology like thermal drones is essential for adapting to Australia’s evolving climate conditions.
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Sources:
Australian Climate Hazards Outlook – July to September 2025, Bureau of Meteorology (Released 3 July 2025).