Incoming weather heightens landslide risk – know the signs

With strong winds and more wet weather forecast for the long weekend, Western Bay of Plenty District Council is urging people to remain vigilant and stay safe.

A Strong Wind Watch is in place for the Bay of Plenty from 12pm to 5pm tomorrow (Saturday 24 January), with a moderate chance of upgrading to a Warning. Showers are also forecast over the weekend.

The expected wind, combined with already instable ground conditions, could result in further landslides and fallen trees, warns Western Bay of Plenty District Emergency Control Centre Controller, Scott Parker.

“If you live near, are visiting, or driving through areas which may be prone to landslides, please stay alert and aware,” says Scott.

Warning signs include:

• Small slips, rock falls, and sinking land, at the bottom of slopes.
• Sticking doors and window frames, which may mean the land is slowly moving under the building.
• Gaps where window frames are not fitting properly.
• Steps, decks, and verandas, moving or tilting away from the rest of the building.
• New cracks or bulges on the ground, road, footpath, retaining walls and other hard surfaces.
• Tilting trees, retaining walls, or fences.

“As we have tragically witnessed over the past 48 hours, landslides can happen quickly and without warning. If you see signs of a potential landslide, please act quickly - evacuate the building, or move away from the area,” says Scott.

Council has been responding to multiple slips across the District, many of which caused temporary road closures and access issues yesterday.

Several of these sites have now been cleared and reopened, while others continue to be assessed today.

Council’s rapid building assessments are ongoing, with teams focusing on both slip affected areas and flood affected properties.

“Land stability remains a significant concern across the District due to extremely saturated ground conditions, and our assessors are taking a cautious, safety first approach to site visits,” says Scott.

As conditions improve and more damage becomes visible, Council expects to receive a growing number of service requests.

Those that pose the greatest risk to people and property will be prioritised. Residents are encouraged to continue reporting slips, flooding, blocked drains and other issues via 0800 926 732, or the Antenno app.

For the latest on road closures and other key information visit Council’s dedicated weather event page - Weather Event Information Hub - Western Bay of Plenty District Council – and follow the Facebook page for updates: Facebook

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