Emergency response efforts continue to restore power, telecommunications and water services in the Clutha District, four days after a significant storm hit the region.

Clutha Civil Defence continues to lead the response in the Clutha District, with support from Emergency Management Otago, emergency services and partner agencies.

Emergency Management Otago Group Controller Matt Alley says the focus remains restoration of key infrastructure and supporting the Clutha residents during this challenging time.

“There’s been a mammoth effort over the past few days with a range of agencies doing their best to support people and restore services as fast as possible and this is progressing well considering the scale of the damage.”

“There are many others doing their bit to help too. We’re hearing examples of how people in the community are helping each other, from farmers sharing generators to neighbours checking on each other. This is invaluable at times like this.”

With cold weather arriving, anyone without heating due to power outages is encouraged to stay with whanau or friends for a few days.

People are encouraged to stay informed, continue to check on neighbours and pass on information to those who may not be receiving it directly.

Funding support
The Government today announced it will contribute $50,000 for the Clutha District Council Mayoral Relief Fund. The fund will provide assistance on a one-off basis for extraordinary circumstances where real need can be shown.

Telecommunications
The National Emergency Management Agency has sent Starlink satellites to the Clutha District. These were delivered into isolated communities by the NZ Defence Force today.

Power update
Around 2500 properties are still without power in Clutha. Power was restored to more than 900 properties on Sunday. PowerNet have been working hard to reach all communities. Power has been restored to Kaitangata, Ōwaka, Taieri Mouth and most of Lawrence. Huge progress has been made between Owaka and the Clutha Valley. Additional resource is coming to help restore power to the district.

Water and wastewater
All water and wastewater plants in the Clutha District are expected to be operating by the end of day Monday, many are running on generators. Water tanks remain available in towns where needed. A boil water notice is in place for most of the district, except Balclutha, Kaitangata, Wangaloa, Milton and Waihola.

Roading
Many roads in the Clutha District remain closed or partially closed while contractors continue to assess and clear. The Clutha District Council website has the latest updates.

Support for farmers
Farmers and growers are encouraged to contact Rural Support Trust for wellbeing and welfare assistance. Call 0800 787 254.

Farmers unable to comply with environmental rules and regulations, are asked to let Otago Regional Council know. Staff are available over the long weekend to give advice on how to handle effluent storage, milk dumping, stock exclusion, stock water and greenwaste disposal. Call 0800 800 033 or email pollution@orc.govt.nz.

Welfare centres
Drop in welfare centres were open across the district on Monday, including at Lawrence, Balclutha, Heriot, Owaka, Clydevale, Waitahuna, Waiwera South. People are asked to check on neighbours, especially those who may be elderly, isolated, or without communication.

Trees and powerline safety
It is still extremely dangerous to begin clearing and cutting fallen trees, in particular trees that could be spring loaded and could come into contact with powerlines when cut. If you are untrained, please do not attempt to clear. Multiple powerlines are down and will be lying close to where cleanups are.

There is potential for more trees/branches to come down, so people are asked to stay well clear of all trees for their own safety.

Food safety
Food safety advice is available on Clutha District Council’s website. Skips for spoiled food are at Simpson Park, Lawrence; Knarston Park, Taieri Mouth; Ōwaka Freedom camping site.

Stay informed
Get updates and information at cluthadc.govt.nz/weather-event

Listen to Radio New Zealand (101 FM / 810 AM), More FM (92.9 FM / 93.7 FM) or or Hokonui (95.2 FM / 91.3 FM / 88.3 FM) if you are able to.

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