Blow-torch conditions today fanned flames around Cessnock in the Hunter Valley.
At Aberdare, hot dry winds and a top of 46 degrees greeted fire fighters, forced to battle a flare-up of a blaze that began last night.
Over 100 firefighters are working to protect properties near Melbourne Street.
The fire is burning in bushland near Melbourne Street, Duffie Drive and Cummerford Close. The fire has crossed Duffie Drive and is burning in a south-easterly direction towards Kearsley.
Evacuated residents are being relocated to the Kearsley Community Centre.
Duffie Drive is currently closed.
Two firefighters have been treated for smoke inhalation and heat exhaustion.
The blaze is thought to have been triggered by vandals setting fire to a car in nearby bushland.
I live right across from the horses paddocks in Melbourne street and would like to thank to Rural fire service for their stella Job protecting houses and our families.