Thursday 13 April 2017

Region prepared for Tropical Cyclone Cook

While current MetService predictions indicate the Manawatu-Whanganui Region will miss the bulk of Tropical Cyclone Cook’s extreme weather, Horizons Regional Council has put in place precautions.

Horizons group controller Craig Grant says following MetService’s latest forecast the Council is not intending to activate its Emergency Control Centre.

“While we are not expecting any major issues, we know from past experience that things can change quickly. We have contingency plans in place, Horizons duty managers are on call, and we have confirmed emergency management staff availability for the weekend,” says Mr Grant.

MetService forecasts predict 50-60 millimetres of rain in the Whanganui headwaters. Horizons river management group manager Ramon Strong says relative to last week’s weather event, they anticipate the heavy rain between midnight tonight and midday tomorrow will result in modest flows in the Manawatu, Rangitikei and Whanganui Rivers.

“The weather event is unlikely to present any issues for flood protection schemes and infrastructure. We are not anticipating the need to activate flood gates or deploy staff, however they are on call,” says Mr Strong.

Mr Grant says the biggest concern is gale-force winds, with up to 140 kph winds forecast for some of the Region.

“This may result in slips, power outages, fallen trees and moving debris,” says Mr Grant. “We ask everyone to remain vigilant. Clear gutters, tie down trampolines, store outside furniture away, and please keep an eye on rising river levels and coastal swells.

“Now is also a good time to ensure your phones are fully charged, and that you have a survival kit with plenty of food, water, blankets and medical supplies prepared.”

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