A bushfire that threatened homes in the Port Stephens region in South Wales, Australia, has been downgraded, but Newcastle Airport remains closed. The airport was closed on Saturday afternoon, with flights cancelled or diverted due to the fire that was being fanned by strong westerly winds. An emergency warning was issued for the area in the afternoon, before it was downgraded to an advice notice by the evening, Perthnow.com.au. Water bombing aircraft and more than 60 Rural Fire Service personnel worked to contain the blaze, as it threatened homes in the area. An RFS spokesman said the airport was closed due to the heavy smoke in the area. Newcastle Airport confirmed via Twitter it would be closed for the day, but expected to reopen on Sunday.
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