RDC take part in Exercise Rū Whenua

Rangitīkei District Council staff who are trained in Civil Defence Emergency Management (CDEM) functions took part in day one of the exercise this morning, simulating scenarios that could impact the district when a large Alpine Fault earthquake happens. Research suggests that there’s a 75 percent chance of an Alpine Fault earthquake of magnitude 7 or greater in the next 50 years.

Whilst the South Island would be hit the hardest in such an event, there would be impacts for the North Island as well, including the Rangitīkei District. Some scenarios were created of potential impacts to the district such as building damage, road/rail and bridge damage, no internet connectivity and loss of power, all of which would severely complicate Council’s response to support the community.

This gave staff the chance to familiarise themselves with some of the mobile and pop-up equipment that may need to be used, and practice the processes that have been put in place to respond to an earthquake of that size.

A large earthquake on the Alpine Fault means that resources and people will be stretched across New Zealand, and locally we may not have everything or everyone that we need straight away. That’s why it’s so important that people are prepared to look after themselves for up to seven days. Find out more about how to prepare for Civil Defence emergencies.