Balclutha Residents Urged to Conserve Water Amid Ongoing Emergency

Residents of Balclutha have been advised to conserve water as Southland continues to face challenges following severe winds that struck the region ten days ago. The state of emergency remains in effect until November 7, 2023. Currently, 1,290 properties in Southland and 1,100 properties in Otago are still without power.

The situation is complicated due to extensive damage, according to PowerNet, which is managing the restoration efforts. “Restoration is ongoing but complex due to widespread damage,” stated Emergency Management Southland. They noted that in order to ensure safety, there may be times when areas that have already had power restored will need to be temporarily switched off.

Most public parks, reserves, and playgrounds in Invercargill, Bluff, and across Southland District remain closed for inspection. Authorities expressed concern regarding individuals entering these restricted areas, emphasizing the importance of public safety.

In Balclutha, local residents are specifically being asked to monitor their water usage. The Clutha District Council reported disruptions at the water treatment plant due to mechanical issues with a valve. “Operators are on site now working to repair the problem,” the council stated.

Currently, the water reservoir is at 60% capacity, prompting the council to issue a conservation notice. Residents are encouraged to avoid activities that require significant amounts of water, such as washing vehicles, to allow the reservoir to recover once repairs are completed.

As the community navigates these challenges, cooperation and mindfulness regarding resource usage will be essential for ensuring that water availability remains stable during the ongoing recovery efforts.