Firefighters manage to contain huge grassfire burning on Newell Highway near Moree amid total fire ban

The blaze broke out in searing temperatures about lunchtime on Wednesday.

Fanned by the dry and windy conditions, the fire took hold of stubble along the Newell Highway, about 6km north of Gurley.

Firefighters rushed to the scene after the first emergency call, and in the midst of a total fire ban - the only one in the state - attacked the blaze from the ground and the air.

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The fire - which was less than 20km from Moree - sent thick black smoke billowing into the air.

The RFS said water bombing aircraft were sent to the scene to douse the flames, and within a matter of hours had the fire contained.

The RFS said no homes or sheds were under threat but the fire burned through more than 600 hectares.

Firefighters are still at the scene mopping up the blaze and patrolling the area for any flare ups.

The North West fire area is covered by a total fire ban until at least midnight on Wednesday. The mercury nudged 42 degrees on Wednesday afternoon with crews also having to contend with gusty conditions.

A high fire danger rating is predicted for the New England, Northern Slopes and North West fire zones on Thursday as temperatures ease.