21 June 2013

MEDIA RELEASE

Concern for vulnerable during weather event

With the continuing bad weather throughout the region, Canterbury Civil Defence Emergency Management group is working with local authorities and other agencies in the area to provide what help is needed.

“There have been no declared of state of emergencies,” says Canterbury Region Group Controller Neville Reilly, “But we are reminding people to stay safe and check on their neighbours if they can; especially if they are elderly or vulnerable.

“One of our main concerns is the welfare of those people in earthquake damaged housing. In some areas conditions have improved overnight so this may be a chance for people to check on others and on property.”

However, if weather conditions are still hazardous people are urged to follow local advice and heed all warnings in regards to road safety and the like.  The main Alpine passes and high country roads remain closed and there are swell warnings for the South Canterbury Coast due to the possibility of coastal inundation.

The Metservice long term forecast is for another cold but dry front early next week with very low temperatures predicted for tonight and Saturday night which is likely to bring more heavy snow to parts of Canterbury above 300m.

Mr Reilly reminds people to listen to the radio, or check their local council website for updates of conditions in their area; if they need the assistance of Police, Fire or ambulance, to call 111.

ENDS

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