Catchments are currently saturated following heavy rain, and with more in the forecast we are asking you to be alert for any signs of instability near cliffs and steep slopes (escarpments). This includes movements of trees or the slope, cracks in the earth, ground slumpage, or dislodged boulders suspended in vegetation on the escarpment face.

Council recommends keeping a close eye on escarpments nearby and following the below precautions:

1.    Residents whose properties are at the base of escarpments are advised to not occupy the rear ground floor rooms of their dwellings until 24 hours after each rainfall event has ended.
2.    Sleep in a room on the opposite side from the escarpment.
3.    Residents at the top of escarpments should monitor the ground adjacent to the escarpment edge for any sign of ground cracks or tree instability, and contact Council with any concerns.
4.    If you are concerned about escarpment stability, consider self-evacuating to a location where there is no landslide hazard.

If you see any signs of soil movement or unstable trees on the escarpment, contact Whakatāne District Council on 07 306 0500 (24 hours) with location details so the area involved can be inspected.