Cyclone Vaianu Update - 10 April

What we know

Trees impacted by the February storm may still be left exposed, this could be on the sides of our roads, and in our parks and reserves.

Some of our rural roads hit particularly hard during the last event are still vulnerable.

What we’re doing to prepare

Council staff have been briefed and are ready to respond to the event should we need.

The Parks and Reserves Team will potentially close Bulls Domain from Sunday morning, as many trees are vulnerable to strong winds following the February event.

We’ve been in touch with key contacts in our rural communities to ensure that they have everything they need to respond should they need to. This has included redeploying some generators and welfare kits in the chance they are needed.

The Marton Harvest Festival scheduled for Sunday 12 April has been cancelled out of an abundance of caution for people and property.

What we need you to do

Many of you are well versed at this now, but use these next couple days to help yourself and your loved ones get prepared for the potential impacts:

1. In the event SH1 is shut or impacted, DO NOT travel on rural roads you are unfamiliar with. Rangitīkei is home to some gnarly bits of road. If you’re not sure, turn around and stay home.
2. Tie down or fix any outdoor furniture, play equipment, anything that could be picked up by the wind and turned into a missile.
3. Remove any debris such as leaves and branches from your gutters and drains.
4. Have you got a fully stocked emergency kit or grab bag? Restock it ahead of the weekend and make sure you're prepared to look after yourself and your whānau for at least 3 days.
5. Make sure you have any medication you require.
6. Get batteries for torches and charge electronic equipment.
7. Bring pets inside ahead of bad weather hitting.
8. If you have livestock, be prepared to move them to higher ground.
9. Check in on your neighbours, particularly those who might be vulnerable. See what assistance they need and if you can help.

Two other key points from our friends at Civil Defence Emergency Management Manawatū-Whanganui

Hunting/outdoor activities
We know it is peak hunting season with the roar on at the moment. Given the forecast rain and wind, we recommend you think twice before heading out hunting or doing other outdoor activities this weekend. This is not the time for “she’ll be right” attitudes. You are better off staying safe and waiting for good weather, rather than ending up in a situation beyond your control.

Travelling
We also know it’s school holidays right now, and people will have travel plans. The same advice for hunters applies for you - you are better delaying/cancelling plans and staying safe than getting yourself and your family into a potentially dangerous situation.

Council will keep you updated of any local developments. Please make sure you check MetService for updated weather forecasts.

Updated @ 12:55pm on Friday, 10 April