Wilma causes Far North power outages

Described by a WeatherWatch analyst as the most significant storm to hit New Zealand in 14 years, ex-tropical cyclone Wilma caused localised power outages for some Far North power consumers overnight.

Substantial rain fell over the region with many areas receiving more than 200mm in a 15 hour period. Maximum rainfall intensities ranged between 15 - 40mm per hour.

Extensive flooding, major slips and falling trees caused 8 separate power outages across Top Energy's network - all within the Eastern Bays, Kaeo and Whangaroa areas.

Around 2,500 power consumers were affected at various times from early to late evening Friday, with approximately 900 remaining without power overnight, as Top Energy line crews struggled to gain access to downed lines because of extensive flooding and road closures.

According to Top Energy, General Manager Networks, Keith Gilby, line crews have been working hard in atrocious conditions to restore power. "As of 3:30pm today (Saturday) there remain around 200 power consumers without supply. We are continuing to work closely with Civil Defence to ensure supplies can be restored safely to the remaining customers affected, once the roads have been cleared and the floodwaters have subsided", he said.

END.

© Scoop Media