Total fire ban now in force across Otago and Southland

The fire danger message on Three Mile Hill Rd yesterday.

Scorching temperatures have forced Fire and Emergency New Zealand to impose a total fire ban across Otago and Southland.

Many parts of the country are tinder dry and Fenz is calling for people to be extra vigilant because the fire risk is higher than ever.

Rural regional manager Mike Grant said a total fire ban was put in place in Southland on Sunday as temperatures reached a record 32degC.

Fire restrictions were already in place for some parts of Otago before a total fire ban was imposed last night for the entire region, which included the Catlins, Clutha, coastal Otago and Lakes districts, he said.

Conditions had been "incredibly dry'' and soil-moisture levels were very low.
"We've had a few millimetres of rain here and there over the past six weeks, but the grass and vegetation is still tinder dry.

"That, coupled with the extremely hot weather we've been having, means the fire danger is really high.

"We've had an unprecedented run of hot weather lately. Certainly for Invercargill, the heat has been record-breaking.''

Mr Grant said the total fire ban meant people were not allowed to light outdoor fires of any kind or use charcoal barbecues, braziers or incinerators.

Gas barbecues were allowed, but he said they should be kept in a safe location, off the ground and well away from long grass or anything that could catch alight.

"People need to be extremely cautious when doing anything outside that could potentially start a fire.

"Whether it's mowing the lawns or starting machinery that could send sparks flying, just be mindful of the risk.

"People should even watch where they park their car. All it takes is for a car to pull on to the grass on the side of the road and for the exhaust to set the grass on fire.''

A total fire ban remains in place for several other regions, including Gisborne, Horowhenua and Marlborough.