New Zealand: Emergency crews responding to vegetation fire in Port Hills in Canterbury Region as of Feb. 14

Emergency crews continue to respond to a large vegetation fire burning in Port Hills in the Canterbury Region as of Feb. 14; 14 helicopters and 15 trucks and tankers are fighting the blaze. Authorities have issued evacuation orders for Worselys Road, Worsleys Spur, and Early Valley. The Princess Margaret Hospital and surrounding areas are also being evacuated. An emergency center is located at Halswell Library and Community Centre and at the Lincoln Community Centre for people closer to Selwyn. Te Whatu Ora National Public Health Service has also issued a public health warning for smoke from the fire; residents affected by the smoke should close windows and doors and reduce outdoor activities. Reports indicate power outages across tens of thousands of homes in Bromley, Heathcote, Linwood, and surrounding areas due to damage at the Bromley substation; most power has since been restored. Roads surrounding the fire are closed, including Summit Road between Dyers Pass Road and Gebbies Pass Road.

The status of nearby roads is likely to change over the coming hours and days; authorities could close routes in the vicinity of the fire and evacuate communities due to fire activity and the need of response operations. The return of residents could disrupt traffic flows after authorities lift evacuation orders. Low visibility from smoke and possible ashfall could contribute to traffic delays and congestion in the region.