Wagga operational officer Brad Stewart said it was part of living in the region.

“At this time of year it’s common practice for farmers to burn off stubble from last year’s harvest in preparation for sowing winter crops,” Mr Stewart said. “We just ask farmers to be mindful of winds when they burn off so as not to impact the community. Last year it was pretty bad as there was a huge amount of burning off and the smoke impact was substantial, but this year we’re fortunate the need for burning off is not as great.”

People with respiratory conditions should be mindful of the smoke, Mr Stewart said, closing up their homes and keeping medication at hand if needed.

Mr Stewart also warned there was still an “elevated bushfire risk” and reminded people the bushfire danger period would continue until March 31.

“The risk will still be high until we see substantial rain,” Mr Stewart said. “Sunday was severe and we could still see potential very high fire danger, it’s just dependent on the variables.”

If you see an unattended fire call Triple-0, Mr Stewart said.

“If you see smoke or fire on a property and you see it’s being managed, only call Triple-0 if it threatens life or property,” he said.

Find out more about bushfire danger and fire permits at the RFS website.