MEDIA RELEASE

Saturday 3 March, 2012

Strong winds batter Region

High winds have battered the Manawatu – Wanganui region today, hitting Wanganui particularly hard with power outages and falling debris throughout the district.

Wanganui residents are being urged to make safety their priority. Power lines and trees are down around the district. Extreme caution is required when driving or venturing outdoors. Rural residents are advised to stay home as the state of some rural roads is unknown.

Power is out to the Ikitara Road pump which feeds the Bastia Hill water tower. Residents of Bastia Hill and Durie Hill are asked to conserve water until power is restored.

The situation in the rest of the region remains stable although wind gusts of up to 244km/h have been felt in Southern Tararua.

Civil defence staff in the region remain on standby and will continue to monitor river heights as the rain continues.

“We will continue to monitor rivers and rainfall throughout the weekend and update as necessary if the situation changes,” said Horizons emergency manager Shane Bayley.
Up-to-date information on river heights and rainfall will be available via Horizons 24 hour Waterline. People wishing to access this information may call tollfree number 0508 4 FLOOD or visit Horizons website www.horizons.govt.nz.

Public are reminded to:
• Stay informed on weather updates. Listen to your local radio stations as civil defence authorities will be broadcasting the most appropriate advice for your community and situation.
• Put your household emergency plan into action and check your getaway kit in case you have to leave in a hurry. Ensure you have torches, a battery operated radio and spare batteries.
• Secure, or move indoors, all items that could get blown about and cause harm in strong winds. Includes rubbish bins and outdoor furniture, trampolines etc
• Water supplies can be affected so it is a good idea to store drinking water in containers.
• Check drains and spouting and clear any blockages.
• During a storm, close windows, external and internal doors. Pull curtains and drapes over unprotected glass areas to prevent injury from shattered or flying glass.
• If the wind becomes destructive, stay away from doors and windows and shelter further inside the house.
• Don't walk around outside and avoid driving unless absolutely necessary.
• If you are travelling keep up with updates and drive to the conditions
• Power cuts are possible in severe weather. Unplug small appliances which may be affected by electrical power surges. If power is lost unplug major appliances to reduce the power surge and possible damage when power is restored.
• Bring pets inside. Move stock to shelter.
• Report flooding to your local council

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