Cleanup Efforts Underway as Gore Faces Aftermath of Severe Winds

Gore is currently facing significant challenges as cleanup efforts commence following a weekend of intense winds that reached up to 155 km/h. The aftermath has left debris scattered across roads and trees, creating hazardous conditions for residents. Power outages have affected approximately 6,250 customers in Southland, leading to the suspension of Powernet’s outage map due to the extensive damage.

According to Powernet Chief Executive Paul Blue, as of noon on Monday, the restoration of power may take several days in many areas due to the complexity of the damage. “We’re now at the point where areas may take longer to restore as they are more complex and with widespread damage,” Blue stated. He emphasized the need for patience among residents, urging them not to attempt clearing debris from power lines, which can be dangerous. “Please don’t do this, as it can be very dangerous,” he added, advising individuals to report issues and wait for professional assistance.

Emergency Coordination and Community Support

In response to the crisis, Mayor Ben Bell and the Gore District Council swiftly established an emergency coordination centre in the council chambers. This initiative was supported by Civil Defence and the Invercargill City Council to assess damage and mitigate risks within the region. Bell highlighted the urgency of the situation, stating that safety should remain a priority in the days ahead.

The cleanup process is now underway, but caution is paramount. “We are urging people to exercise caution,” Bell said, noting that some trees are precariously hanging over playgrounds. The council has also requested those sharing generators with neighbours to inform Civil Defence to avoid potential hazards.

Visiting the region earlier this week, Minister for Emergency Management Mark Mitchell announced a support package to assist affected areas. Bell accompanied Mitchell on the tour, expressing gratitude for the government’s response. “It was really good the minister came down,” he remarked, revealing that $150,000 has been allocated for the rural relief fund to aid the community.

Bell also commended local radio stations, including Hokonui and Cave FM, which remained operational throughout the long weekend to disseminate important information to the public.

Ongoing Cleanup and Community Resilience

As cleanup efforts continue, residents are urged to remain vigilant and prioritize safety. The council is collaborating with various agencies to ensure a thorough response to the aftermath of the severe weather. Bell reiterated the importance of community support, encouraging residents to check in on their neighbours during this challenging time.

With cleanup operations expected to last throughout the week, officials stress the need for continued caution to minimize the risk of injuries. The situation in Gore serves as a reminder of the resilience of communities when faced with natural disasters, as efforts to restore normalcy begin in earnest.