FURTHER DETAILS.

Colonist, Volume LVI, Issue 13594, 8 October 1914, Page 6

FURTHER DETAILS.

Dannevirke, Oct. 7. The grass, log and bush fires which have raged in the Dannevirke and adjacent settlements for the last two days were the most severe and general probably ever experienced. The fires spread rapidly on account of the heavy gale that prevailed. It has been a phenomenally dry spring, and settlers in all parts spent sleepless nights trying to protect their property. Immen«3 areas of grass lands have been swept by fire, and the loss in feed at this time of the year is particularly severe. The coun^ try almost to the coast and far to the north and south of Dannevirke has been swept. In many localities the fires are still burning fiercely. Fortunately the gale has abated. The Ruaroa district has suffered severely, and five houses have been destroyed there. Norsewood settlers also suffered heavy losses. Several empty houses weredestroyed, while early on Wednesday morning fires were dangerously close to the township, showers of swjrks falling near the Hall and the State school. Fortunately none of the adjacent buildings caught, otherwise th& town probably would have been destroyed. Miles of fencing in the various parts have been devoured by flames, also numerous outbuildings, while losses of stock are reported. Rain is badly needed, otherwise much further damage may be done.