Media Release

25/11/2015

High winds/extreme fire risk warning for Southland

The Met Service has issued a severe weather warning for Southland with high winds expected in dry conditions, fuelling concerns about an extreme fire risk.

An active front coming in from the Tasman in a north/north west direction is due to arrive in Southland at about noon tomorrow (Thursday 26/11) and will last through Thursday night, dying down about mid-morning on Friday (27/11).

Wind gusts are expected to reach 120-130kmph throughout Southland and up to 150-160kmph on hill country down slopes. Heavy rain is expected in Fiordland with some likely to spill over into Southland.

Temperatures are expected to remain high and this coupled with the dry conditions and strong winds means the fire risk is extremely high.

People should not light any outdoor fires, extinguish any fires burning now, and check the sites of any previous burn-offs to ensure they are out fully extinguished. Real care also needs to be taken with the use of machinery for mowing, grinding, welding and the like.

The site of a fire north of Dipton over the past few days is being actively managed by the rural fire service. All efforts are being made to manage the fire before weather conditions deteriorate.

Motor cyclists, cyclists and motorists with high-sided and light vehicles are advised to take extreme care.

People should secure trampolines and other loose outdoor items, and boaties need to secure their moorings.

In the event of a power outage, there may be delays in restoring it due to an assessment of the fire risk being undertaken first. If power lines come down in the winds, treat them as live, keep clear and contact Powernet.

© Scoop Media