Fire risk in Christchurch remains high
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North Canterbury firefighters are on high alert with warm, windy weather forecast for the next couple of days, ahead of some forecast rain.
The past two weeks have been drier than normal, with only 30 per cent of the expected rainfall, and parts of the region remain tinder dry.
Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) Integrated Risk Manager Darrin Woods says the weather conditions over the next few days will push up the potential for fires.
A total fire ban is in place across Christchurch and Banks Peninsula.
A restricted fire season is in place in Selwyn, Waimakariri and Hurunui districts.
“We will not see any significant widespread reduction in the fire risk until we get some decent rainfall and the grass becomes greener,” Mr Woods says. “ We need to remain vigilant for some time yet, and hope that the unusually dry conditions experienced to date this year will change in due course.’’
If anyone sees smoke or fire they should dial 111 immediately.