Christchurch Earthquake Update - September 5, 2010 - 6 am

Emergency Management for Greater Christchurch earthquake: plans needed for bad weather ahead.

Civil Defence authorities are advising residents living in Greater Christchurch, especially those in badly affected areas or with significant damage to their properties, to ensure they continue to have contingency plans in place, especially as bad weather is forecast for the Canterbury region.

Jon Mitchell, Canterbury Emergency Management Office Emergency Manager, says that as the emergency enters day two, residents need to look at their longer term plans and prepare for the emergency to continue into next week at least.

“As residents return to their homes or begin to assess damage, they need to be aware of a cold weather front moving across Canterbury throughout the day. The forecast indicates that the front will reach Canterbury around mid-morning today, bringing the strong possibility of gale-force winds early on Sunday, followed by rain in the west of the region by Monday. The wind may cause further damage to properties and make ongoing repairs difficult,” said Mr Mitchell.

People should remain in their homes and avoid non-essential travel whenever possible, and make provisions to stay with friends or relatives for at least the next 24-48 hours, possibly longer.”

Mr Mitchell said that aftershocks are likely to continue and emergency services, local government and voluntary sector personnel are actively supporting affected communities.

Structural engineers are assessing damage. You can report damage to you local council and seek advice from welfare assistance by calling 0800 77 9997 but please be patient as lines will be busy.

For roads information: See www.nzta.govt.nz

For further information go to www.getthru.govt.nz, www.ecan.govt.nz, www.ccc.govt.nz or www.waimakariri.govt.nz or www.selwyn.govt.nz