Southland Urged To Stay Safe Outdoors

Power and water issues remain in parts of Southland as recovery efforts continue this week
Authorities urge residents to conserve water and avoid risky activity around fallen power lines
Generators are being distributed to rural properties with extended power outages expected

Southland remains under states of emergency as response and recovery work continues following recent severe weather. Emergency Management Southland says the response is expected to last into the week, with key priorities including restoring power, ensuring community safety, and meeting welfare needs.

“Wastewater plants are returning to normal but some still rely on generators,” said Controller Jack Rudolph. “Fuel supplies across Southland are in good shape and most stations are open and operational.”

Urban areas and critical services now have power restored, but work is continuing to restore service to rural customers. Power for some dairy farms and cell towers may not be fully restored for up to a week.

Residents in Winton are being asked to reduce water use, as low water pressure is expected until reservoirs refill. Meanwhile, nitrate levels in Gore’s water supply continue to drop, showing signs of improvement.

Controller Jack Rudolph reminded the public to stay safe and avoid downed lines and tangled debris. “There are large numbers of broken poles and trees tangled in lines. Don’t try to clear anything yourself — it’s dangerous and could cause more damage.”

For residents with urgent welfare needs, or those needing generators, the Welfare Line is available on 0800 890 127 or via email at [email protected]. People are also encouraged to look out for their neighbours and share only verified information.

In rural areas, Emergency Management Southland is working closely with farmers to identify generator needs for milking and water supply. Generators are being prioritised for critical services, and will be redistributed to other properties as electricity is restored.

If milk must be dumped due to lack of power, farmers are advised to talk to their dairy companies and Environment Southland.

Fire Safety Advice
With many homes still without power, fire safety remains a concern. People are urged to turn off all appliances — particularly cookers and heaters — to prevent fires when the power comes back on.

Use torches or battery-powered lights where possible. If candles are necessary, keep them in jars or stable holders and away from curtains or flammable items. Never leave a candle burning unattended or near where people are sleeping.

Alternative heating or cooking devices such as camp stoves must be kept on stable surfaces and well away from children or pets.

Weather Outlook
Weather warnings have lifted, but a cold spell is expected over the coming days, bringing snow above 800 metres. With power still out in some areas, staying warm may be difficult.

Residents are urged to prepare by ensuring they have enough firewood, closing curtains and doors to keep heat in, and layering up to stay warm. Controller Jack Rudolph also reminded people not to use outdoor gas heaters or barbecues indoors.

“Please take care, stay safe, and look after one another as we work through the recovery together.”

Southland Student Volunteer Army
Southland SVA is planning an Invercargill Storm Crisis Response.
As soon as the weather improves, our team will be heading around Invercargill to offer help and support.

If you need assistance, please fill out the form below.
For any questions, contact SBHS SVA Ambassador Jacob Wilkinson-Hall at: [email protected] or fill out the form here https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScKjhYFHe6D4jwjy3yf6-XxE38ozfw3h4bKl3lFgNcug6njlw/viewform