National Rural Fire Authority
Otago/Southland Fire Danger Warning

30 August, 2006

The National Rural Fire Authority is requesting Otago/Southland farmers take extreme care if undertaking burning operations over the next couple of days.

Strong southwest winds up to 80 km/h in exposed places are forecast for today and tomorrow for the Northern Southland and Central Otago areas.

These weather conditions are predicted to elevate the fire dangers conditions in these areas to periods of extreme. Any fires that start in these conditions are likely to be significant and difficult to control if early intervention by firefighters is not possible.

National Rural Fire Officer Murray Dudfield says farmers intending to burn on hill and high lands should not be fooled by the indifferent weather this winter and are requested to take extreme care if undertaking burning operations over the next couple of days.

He says the Department of Conservation and Central Otago District Council may introduce restrictions on the use of fire in the open air over the next few days.

Land owners need to be aware of the forecasted weather expected for their area and contact their local Rural Fire Authority to check what conditions are in place.

ENDS

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