Fire and Emergency NZ is warning a spike in fires could be likely for Otago as hot, windy and dry conditions make their way towards the region.
The forecasted weather conditions for the middle of the week will increase the risk of fire and make it more challenging for firefighters to respond, according to FENZ.
People in Central Otago, Queenstown Lakes and the Upper Waitaki are being urged to avoid any activities that generate sparks on Wednesday and Thursday.
FENZ Otago district manager Phil Marsh said a prohibited fire season has been declared for all three zones, which means all outdoor fires are banned.
"We are expecting very hot, dry and windy conditions on Wednesday and into Thursday, based on the weather forecast, and that means that any fire that does start will spread quickly and be more difficult for our firefighters to put out," Marsh warned.
FENZ is urging contractors, farmers, tradies and everyone using machinery to avoid activities that generate sparks on Wednesday and Thursday. Including grinders, ride-on lawnmowers and other tools that can strike against stones and cause a spark.
Marsh is asking anyone who lit an outdoor fire in the last three weeks to check it's completely out, and warns fires can easily reignite in strong winds.
"All the indications are that we are in for a long, dry summer, and the risk of wildfire is already high," Marsh said. "Grass that seems green on top is already drying off underneath and the ground itself is dry in most places."
"Anyone who has turned a spade in their own garden will know exactly how dry the soil is, even after a shower of rain," he said. "These are the conditions where a fire can start easily and be very hard to put out."
Fire and Emergency monitors the fire danger constantly, and up-to-date advice about fire risk is always available at www.checkitsalright.nz
