Source: Radio New Zealand
A general view shows a landslide while a search is underway by local emergency services for missing people at Mount Maunganui in Tauranga. (File photo) DJ Mills
A disaster expert says the “awful events” involving landlsides this week show the importance of knowing how to tell when one is coming.
Several people were trapped in two separate landslides in the Bay of Plenty on Thursday, with two confirmed fatalities in Pāpāmoa.
Dr Lauren Vinnella, a senior lecturer of emergency management at Massey University’s joint centre for disaster research, said there were sometimes warning signs of a landslide to look out for.
“Landslides can occur on most of the slopes we have in New Zealand.
“In particular, if there are any rocks falling or small slips, it might be a sign that a larger slip is about to happen, any cracks or bulges in the ground, or doors or windows becoming hard to close or open because the frames have moved.”
Vinnella said it was important to remember if a person felt as if they were in danger it was always best to act on it.
“It’s better to be safe than sorry,” she said.
Landslide could happen very suddenly, she said, especially during rain and after earthquakes.
She hoped research could inform decisions about how and whether to build on slopes.
“Landslides are quite common in New Zealand and can cause considerable damage.
“My thoughts are with those impacted by the recent severe weather, including those affected by the landslides.”
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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand
