Australian bush fires: Northwesterly wind covers New Zealand in layer of smoke

Wednesday, 27 November 2019

Bush fires raging in Australia combined with northwesterly winds has left New Zealand covered in a layer of smoke.

The 65 fires currently ravaging parts of New South Wales and Queensland have destroyed hundreds of homes and claimed four lives.

The smoke which has blown across the Tasman Sea is covering New Zealand from Cape Reinga to Southland, according to one expert.

Metservice meteorologist Andy Best said several of its sensors indicate lower than normal visibility and something in the air that is reducing air quality.

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'The problem is we are getting more and more of this coming across depending on the bushfires and how long they will continue.'

He said as long as the northwesterly wind continues to blow there will be very little let up for NZ.

A cold southerly or a southerly change is needed to stop the problem, he said. The current forecast is for the northwesterlies to blow until Friday, when there will be a small reprieve, before kicking in again from Saturday to Tuesday.

While the wind stays as it is, the smoke will stay trapped in the lower levels of the country's atmosphere.

Bushfire smoke can irritate the nose and lungs when breathed in, especially for people with asthma or other lung conditions, according to one expert.

Allergy New Zealand CEO Mark Dixon said that hay fever sufferers could find the smoke makes their condition worse.

'If smoke is in the air, it is best to avoid this by staying indoors with windows and doors closed as far as possible. You should also have your asthma medication on hand.'

He said October through to February is when grass pollen is around most and is usually released in the morning.