Fire fighters are asking people to hold back on lighting fireworks this weekend, as conditions are just too dangerous.
While conditions were wet in some areas — including a state of emergency declared in South Westland due to flooding and slips — in many other parts of the country, it was warm and very dry, which meant fires could take hold and spread quickly, Fire and Emergency said.
Crews had already been over-run with fireworks-related calls, responding to more than 80 requests for help since 2 November – double the number from the same period last year.
FENZ community education manager Tom Ronaldson said when windy, warm conditions were mixed with fireworks, it made for a dangerous scenario.
As fireworks go on sale, Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) is once again urging Kiwis to be smart and safe when setting them off. (Source: Breakfast)
Among the firefighters on high alert were those in Hawke’s Bay, as temperatures were predicted to soar there this weekend.
MetService forecasted warm northwesterly winds and a sweltering 30 degrees in Hastings on Saturday, followed by 27 degrees on Sunday.
Hastings senior station officer Joel Fraser said the combination of hot, dry, and windy conditions inevitably increased fire risk, and his station got busy, so they were keeping a close eye on things.
The northwester wind not only dried out the plains but could spread wildfires and controlled burns, he said.
Hawke’s Bay will move to a restricted fire season next week.
People should always visit the Check It’s Alright website to make sure it was fine to light fires or cook outside.
rnz.co.nz
