Inland Otago is set to face a significant increase in fire danger as hot, windy, and dry conditions are forecast for the region this week.

Authorities are urging the public in Central Otago, Queenstown Lakes, and the Upper Waitaki to exercise extreme caution, particularly on Wednesday and Thursday, to prevent any fire outbreaks.

Fire and Emergency Otago District Manager, Phil Marsh, said “We are expecting very hot, dry, and windy conditions based on the weather forecast.

“Any fire that starts will spread quickly and be more challenging for our firefighters to extinguish.”

This warning follows the declaration of a prohibited fire season in all three zones, effectively banning outdoor fires due to the extreme fire danger.

The public, including contractors, farmers, tradies, and anyone using machinery, is advised to avoid activities that might generate sparks.

This includes the use of grinders, ride-on lawnmowers, and other tools or implements with blades that can strike against stones, causing sparks.

Marsh said anyone who has lit an outdoor fire in the past three weeks to ensure it is completely extinguished.

He warned that fires could easily reignite in the current strong wind conditions.

Marsh added, “All indications are that we are in for a long, dry summer, and the risk of wildfire is already high.”

He said that even seemingly green grass is drying underneath, and the ground is parched in most places.

“Anyone who has turned a spade in their own garden will know exactly how dry the soil is, even after a shower of rain. These are the conditions where a fire can start easily and be very hard to put out.”