LIVE: (4:15) Fire near Burnham forces evacuations and closes State Highway 1

Chris Lynch
Chris Lynch
Dec 12, 2024 |

Three houses near Burnham have been evacuated as a precaution due to a large vegetation fire that has spread across approximately 30 hectares.

One structure, a shed, has been destroyed by the blaze, which remains uncontained and uncontrolled.

A significant emergency response has been deployed, with 22 fire trucks, tankers, and support vehicles on the ground, alongside five helicopters working to control the fire.

State Highway 1 between Dunsandel and Burnham remains closed, and authorities have urged people to avoid the area and delay travel if possible.

A Command Unit has been established at the scene to coordinate the response. Train services in the area were temporarily halted, although the main line has since resumed operations.

 

Chris Lynch
Chris Lynch

Chris Lynch is a journalist, videographer and content producer, broadcasting from his independent news and production company in Christchurch, New Zealand. If you have a news tip or are interested in video content, email [email protected]

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