STORM EVENT #4
Significant Storm Damage on Ruapehu Roads

The passing weather bomb has caused disruption around the Ruapehu district with schools closing earlier and significant damage to the road network.

Ruapehu District Council Alternate Civil Defence Controller, Margaret Hawthorne, has advised Ruapehu residents to avoid all unnecessary travel tonight.

“We already have significant damage to Ruapehu roads with flooding, fallen trees and massive slips across the district,” she said.

“At this time RDC has 24 separate road closed or dangerous road situations listed on our website; www.ruapehudc.govt.nz and there are bound to put other situations we are as yet unaware of.”

“Although the weather has calmed down a bit for now there is another storm front forecast overnight bringing frequent showers and strong westerly winds.”

“If people do not need to travel this evening and tonight they really should not.”

“Even if the weather moderates with the damage to the road network people should stay home and keep warm and dry.”

“Council is asking Ruapehu residents to phone in any flooding, slips or other storm related issues to 0800 123 RDC (732).”

ENDS

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