An unlikely culprit is thought to be behind eight fires in less than a week, across Otago.
That culprit is frost - who would've guessed?
- New Zealand's fire danger highest it's been in a long time - Fire and Emergency
- Fire breaks out at iconic Brown Pub in mid Canterbury
Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) says while winter conditions may seem ideal for burning, frost actually sucks the moisture out of grass - meaning a much greater risk of fire escaping.
FENZ principal rural fire officer Graeme Still is urging people to wait and let conditions freshen up.
"Frost burn can just be as bad as a nice hot day," he told Newshub. "It dries the grasses out so it's the same thing."
Still said the frost increases risk of fire escaping.
"All the calls we have received were preventable fires," he said. "People need to take the time, even in winter, to assess the situation before lighting and not being too complacent."
Last week saw a ridge bring overnight frosts to many places such as Otago, MetService says, together with fog patches and areas of low cloud.
Alexandra in central Otago has seen temperatures as low as -6C, but the national forecaster says a high-pressure system moves to the east this week, directing a warmer northeast flow over the country.
"This large high-pressure system has brought clear skies and light winds, but as it moves off to the east Kiwis will notice that the nights are not as cold," MetService meteorologist Andrew James said.
Tips from FENZ for safe burning:
⦁ Stack your hedge trimmings at least 30 meters away and on the downwind side of any hedges, trees, fences, buildings or other combustible material
⦁ check the forecast and make sure there are no strong winds forecast for the next 2 days
⦁ ensure you have enough equipment in order to keep your fire safe, keep in mind the worst case scenario. This can include a hose (plugged in, turned on and near the fire site), spades or tractor for big piles
⦁ keep an eye on your fire throughout burning and watch out for any changes in weather.
⦁ once your fire is out go back a number of times and make sure it is cold. Fires can flare up months after they have been lit.
Newshub.
