PHOTO: CHRISTINE O'CONNORScorching temperatures have forced Fire and Emergency New Zealand to impose a total fire ban across Otago and Southland. Rural regional manager Mike Grant said a total fire ban was put in place in Southland on Sunday as temperatures reached a record 32degC. ``That, coupled with the extremely hot weather we've been having, means the fire danger is really high. Mr Grant said the total fire ban meant people were not allowed to light outdoor fires of any kind or use charcoal barbecues, braziers or incinerators. A total fire ban remains in place for several other regions, including Gisborne, Horowhenua and Marlborough.

Source: Otago Daily Times January 15, 2018 16:07 UTC