Yesterday  Mr Harper said moderate rainfall in January would likely see rapid vegetation growth in the coming weeks and an increased chance of severe bushfires for the remainder of summer.

Mr Harper has reminded residents to remain mindful of bushfires in the coming months and encouraged home-owners to keep their vegetation under control.

‘‘Bushfire season is far from over,’’ he said.

‘‘While it’s quite benign at the moment, we’re still expecting bushfires, because history has told us that February and March are our worst months.

‘‘Even though we’ve had more rain than expected, it’s probably put us two or three weeks behind and has made the grass grow an extra foot.’’

This week saw the release of the Bureau of Meteorology and CSIRO’s federal climate change projection report.

The report has predicted a rise in the number of bushfires in Tasmania over the next 75 years, an increase in annual average temperatures and less frost.

Mr Harper isn’t surprised by the findings, however, and said residents could expect ‘‘more bad days’’ with the onset of climate change.

Despite concern though, he believes Tasmania Fire Service will evolve and adapt.

‘‘We’re always evolving,’’ he said.

‘‘Every year we review our performance and make changes accordingly. This year we have seen the use of more personnel in preparation for bushfires and the use of helicopters and aeroplanes to deal with fire threats.

‘‘Our tactics will keep evolving and we can also rely on states like Victoria if we need to.’’