14 October 2013

Winds rip into rural Canterbury

After a rugged night of gale force winds, Federated Farmers is looking to ascertain the extent of wind related damage in rural Canterbury.

“Lightning may not strike twice in the same spot but it appears the wind can,” says Chris Allen, Federated Farmers Mid-Canterbury Provincial President.

“Five weeks on from the last wind storm we may be back to square one. At least the MetService gave us a warning on Friday this wind was on the cards.

“On behalf of my colleagues, Ivon Hurst in South Canterbury and Lynda Murchison in North Canterbury, we are asking farmers to ring and leave details on Federated Farmers Adverse Events line - 0800 376 844. You do not have to be a member to leave details.

“Given the power is out in places, I guess this is a request to the radio stations and to the websites for those farmers who may still have mobile internet.

“All downed power lines need to be treated as live. Farmers are encouraged to ring their local lines company to report faults which will speed repair. When it comes to downed trees safety is paramount, especially with the current unstable weather.

“If members of Federated Farmers need more personalised service they can call our 0800 FARMING line.

“Our first objective is to get a better handle on things so we can discuss farmer needs with the utilities and councils and also with our colleagues at the three Rural Support Trusts.

“Anecdotally, it seems Mid Canterbury may have lost yet more shelter belts and the power has been spotty.

“Ivon Hurst tells me that in South Canterbury the power is off over a widespread area on the southern side of the Rangitata. We also know there are a lot of trees down too.

“In North Canterbury, Lynda Murchison tells me the winds packed a considerable punch overnight so we are keen to hear details through Federated Farmers Adverse Events line - 0800 376 844,” Mr Allen concluded.

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