State of Emergency Declared in Clutha Due to Wind Damage and Power Outages

Power restoration Underway in Dunedin, Canterbury Fires Contained

Dunedin, New Zealand – Extensive damage to the electrical network has left some Dunedin residents facing a prolonged wait for power restoration, possibly lasting until tommorow. Concurrently,firefighters are making importent progress in containing several blazes that erupted in the Canterbury region.

Dunedin Power Outage Update

Aurora Energy’s Future Network and Operations General Manager, Matt Settle, reported an unprecedented volume of fault calls in Dunedin. As of 2:45 PM today,the number of customers affected had decreased from an initial peak of approximately 16,000 to just over 1,300. Officials anticipate further reductions before the end of the day.

the scale of the disruption reflects the severity of the damage to the city’s power infrastructure, but restoration efforts are proceeding steadily. Crews are working diligently to reconnect affected homes and businesses.

Canterbury Wildfire Response

North of Dunedin, firefighters are nearing completion of work on three of the four wildfires that broke out in Canterbury. Crews are concentrating on dampening hot spots, notably around Hanmer Springs, to prevent any potential flare-ups.

Fire Ban in Effect

Authorities have issued a total ban on outdoor fires and the use of fireworks throughout most areas until Monday morning.This measure is a preemptive step to mitigate the risk of further wildfires, given the forecast for warm and windy conditions over the upcoming long weekend. According to data from fire and Emergency New Zealand, wildfire risk is currently elevated across much of the South Island.

Region	Current Status	Key Actions
Dunedin	Power restoration ongoing	Crews working to reduce impacted customers
Canterbury (Hanmer Springs)	Fires nearing containment	Dampening hot spots
Nationwide	High Fire Danger	Total ban on outdoor fires and fireworks

Did You Know? New Zealand experiences an average of over 2,000 wildfires annually, with the majority occurring during the warmer months.

Residents are reminded to remain vigilant and to report any signs of smoke or fire immediately. Staying informed through official channels is crucial during these events.

Pro Tip: In the event of a power outage, ensure you have a well-stocked emergency kit, including a flashlight, battery-powered radio, and non-perishable food items.

Preparing for Natural disasters: A Long-Term Outlook

Events like these underscore the importance of proactive preparation for natural disasters. homeowners and residents should regularly review their emergency plans, ensuring they have adequate supplies and are familiar with evacuation procedures.

According to the National Emergency Management Agency, being prepared can considerably reduce the impact of emergencies on individuals and communities. This includes securing properties, knowing evacuation routes, and maintaining communication channels.

Frequently Asked Questions about Power Outages and Wildfires

• What causes power outages during storms? Strong winds and heavy rainfall can damage power lines and substations, leading to widespread outages.
• How can I stay informed about wildfire risks? Check the Fire and Emergency New Zealand website and local news for updates and alerts.
• What should I do if my power goes out? Switch off major appliances,report the outage to yoru electricity provider,and follow safety guidelines.
• Is it safe to use a generator during a power outage? Yes,but ensure it is properly ventilated and used according to manufacturer instructions.
• How can I prepare my property for a wildfire? Clear vegetation around your home, and ensure you have a defensible space.

What steps are your local authorities taking to improve infrastructure resilience? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Do you have a family emergency plan in place? let us know in the discussion section.

What immediate actions should Clutha District residents take to ensure their safety and well-being following teh state of emergency declaration?

Current Situation: Clutha District Under Pressure

A state of emergency has been declared in the Clutha District of New Zealand as of October 24, 2025, following widespread and notable damage caused by severe winds. The declaration, made by Clutha District Mayor Bryan Cadogan, allows for greater coordination of resources and rapid response to the escalating crisis. The primary impacts are extensive power outages and structural damage across the region. Residents are urged to stay informed and follow official guidance. This emergency response focuses on public safety and restoring essential services.

Impact of the Storm: A Region-Wide Assessment

The severe weather system, characterized by sustained high winds and gusts exceeding 100 km/h in some areas, has resulted in:

* Widespread Power Outages: Approximately 8,000 properties are currently without power, impacting communities throughout the Clutha District. Power companies are working to assess damage and restore electricity, but full restoration is expected to take several days. Check Aurora Energy’s outage map for real-time updates.

* Downed Trees and Debris: Numerous trees have been felled, blocking roads and damaging property.Road closures are in effect on several key routes, including sections of State Highway 1 and local rural roads.

* Structural Damage: reports are coming in of damaged roofs, broken windows, and fallen power lines. Emergency services are prioritizing responses to incidents posing an immediate threat to life.

* agricultural Impacts: Farms have experienced damage to sheds, fences, and crops. The impact on livestock is still being assessed.

* Interaction Disruptions: Cell phone coverage is intermittent in some areas due to power outages and damage to cell towers.

Road Closures and Travel Advisories

Navigating the Clutha District is currently challenging. The following road closures are confirmed as of 10:00 AM NZDT,October 24,2025 (subject to change):

1. State Highway 1 (Milton to Balclutha): Closed due to downed trees and debris.Detour via local roads – allow significant extra travel time.
2. Romahapa Road: Closed between State Highway 1 and the intersection with Purakaunui Road.
3. Several Rural Roads: Numerous smaller roads are closed due to fallen trees and flooding. Check the Clutha District council website for a comprehensive list of closures.

Travel Advisory: Residents are strongly advised to avoid unneeded travel.If travel is essential, exercise extreme caution, drive to the conditions, and be prepared for delays. Monitor road conditions frequently.

Power Restoration Efforts & Support for Vulnerable Residents

Aurora Energy is mobilizing crews to assess and repair the damage to the power network. Prioritization is being given to restoring power to essential services, such as hospitals, emergency services, and water treatment plants.

* Estimated Restoration Times: While a precise timeline is difficult to provide, Aurora Energy anticipates that full restoration of power will take at least 48-72 hours, potentially longer in more remote areas.

* Community Support Centers: The Clutha district Council has established community support centers in Balclutha, Milton, and Owaka to provide assistance to residents affected by the power outages.These centers offer:

* Charging stations for mobile devices.

* Facts on emergency services and support resources.

* Welfare checks for vulnerable residents.

* Welfare Assistance: residents requiring assistance, particularly the elderly, disabled, or those with medical needs, are encouraged to contact the Clutha District council’s emergency hotline on 03 440 0300.

Staying Informed: Key resources

Staying up-to-date with the latest information is crucial. Here are key resources:

* Clutha District Council: https://www.cluthadc.govt.nz/ (Official updates, road closures, support centers)

* Aurora Energy: https://www.auroraenergy.co.nz/ (Power outage map and restoration updates)

* MetService: https://www.metservice.com/ (Weather forecasts and warnings)

* Civil Defense: https://getready.govt.nz/ (Emergency preparedness information)

* New Zealand Police: 111 (For emergencies only)

Preparing for Ongoing Disruptions: Practical Tips

Even as emergency services work to restore normalcy, residents should prepare for ongoing disruptions. Consider the following:

* Conserve Power: If power is restored,use electricity sparingly to avoid overloading the network.

* Water Supply: Boil water before drinking if you are on a rural water supply, as power outages may affect water treatment.

* Food Safety: Discard any perishable food that has been exposed to warm temperatures for an extended period.

* Check on Neighbors: Especially those who are elderly or vulnerable.

* Secure Property: Clear debris from around yoru