Aerial thermal imaging guides firefighters to critical targets overnight

Photo: Fire and Emergency NZ

Flyovers conducted by drone units overnight across the Port Hills fire zone have identified critical hotspots, guiding ground crews' efforts for today's firefighting operations.

The deployment of Fire and Emergency's specialised drone team commenced after dusk yesterday.

This morning, a helicopter equipped with thermal imaging technology conducted an aerial survey, covering the entire 24-kilometer perimeter of the fire area.

The captured thermal imagery has revealed areas of intense heat, posing a risk of reignition.

Today, a contingent of 86 firefighters and support personnel, complemented by heavy machinery including diggers and bulldozers at working in the Port Hills.

Additionally, a fleet of five helicopters stands ready to provide aerial support as needed.

Incident Controller Steve Kennedy said crews would be leveraging current favourable weather conditions, with winds expected to intensify later in the day and persist into tomorrow.

Meanwhile, investigations into the origin and cause of the fire remain ongoing.