Counties Power crews on standby for Cyclone Gita response

Julie Kaio Reporter from Franklin County News

RECEIVED TUESDAY AM: While it is predicted that the Franklin and southern Counties area will miss the worst of Cyclone Gita, MetService has issued an update this morning predicting that high winds are expected in our region this afternoon and into the early evening.
Counties Power fault crews are on standby and ready to respond.
Counties Power General Manager Field Operations Dale Carline says the winds are now predicted to reach speeds of 95-105km/hr between 1-7pm today, which can result in power outages, especially when flying debris and unmaintained trees are involved.
“We urge all residents to take storm precautions by securing outdoor furniture, trampolines and other objects, store some water if you rely on a pump, check your gas bottle and torches and charge up your smartphone and tablets to stay up to date on the Counties Power Facebook site and website."
Outage information will be updated regularly on the Counties Power facebook page – www.facebook.com... or check www.countiespower.com... for the outages app. You can log a fault on the app or call 0800 100 202.
Please treat all lines as live and report any downed or damaged lines or electrical equipment immediately on 0800 100 202.
This is a timely reminder to please maintain trees and vegetation. It is the property owner’s responsibility to ensure vegetation is kept away from power lines. January’s large-scale power outages were mainly caused by trees or tree debris damaging power lines. More information can be found at www.countiespower.com....