Extreme wind has resulted in multiple and wide-spread outages across South Canterbury.

Alpine Network said crews were working to restore power to Rangitata, Temuka and Ikawai.

Some areas within these three regions could see power restored this evening.

The remaining restoration work will temporarily pause until early tomorrow morning, leaving certain areas listed below without power tonight.

“Rest assured our team will commence work at first light in the morning, to restore power promptly and safely to you. Additionally, be aware that we may be using drones or helicopters tomorrow to patrol some regions.”

Affected Areas Tonight:

Albury, Arno, Arundel, Ashwick Flat, Burkes Pass, Cannington, Cave, Claremont, Fairlie, Fairview, Four Peaks, Geraldine, Geraldine Downs, Glenavy, Gum Tree Flat, Hazelburn, Hunter Hills, Kakahu, Kimbell, Maungati, Middle Valley, Milford, Morven, Mount Dobson, Mt Michael, Opuha, Orari Bridge, Orari Gorge, Orton, Peel Forest, Sherwood Downs, Studholme, Taiko, Te Moana, Totara Valley, Trip Settlement, Waihaorunga, Waikakahi, Waimate, Waimataitai, Willowbridge, Winchester and Woodbury.

If you are medically dependent or rely on power, please make alternative plans. We understand the inconvenience this may cause and want to assure you that every effort is being made to return things to normal as soon as possible. The safety of our community is our top priority.

For those without power overnight, please keep these two things in mind:

– Do not use candles for lighting if the power goes out. Candles cause fires and are quiet and easily forgotten.

– Do not use outdoor gas appliances such as patio heaters, camping cookers and barbecues indoors. These appliances do not have the safety systems as indoor heating appliances which will shut off the gas supply when oxygen levels are depleted and high levels of carbon monoxide are present.