STORM AT WESTPORT

Hokitika Guardian, 17 December 1929, Page 5

STORM AT WESTPORT

DAMAGE IN DULLER GORGE. (By Telegraph—Per Press Association.) WESTPORT, December 17. Following twelve -hours- of heavy rain a cloudburst occurred at Norris’s mill in the Buller Gorge about six miles from Westport, late last night. A bridge over Waimea • creek was buckled and the approaches to a bridge near the mill was badly scoured out. It is also reported that houses atthe mill were flooded and the water pipe line was also carried away annd a big slip came down on the other side of the mill. Cars from Westport to connect with the Christchurch' express were unable to get through and passengers were brought back to Westport. Cars are being brought down from Reefton and by means of transhipping it is hoped to get passengers through to Reefton, Greymouth and Nelson this afternoon.

Workmen from . Tiriroa railway construction camp have been despatched to the affected area, to repair the damage.

Very boisterous weather still prevails, and torrential rain is falling, accompanied by thunder and lightning. Arrangements have been made to put a carriage on the night train from Greymouth tp Christchurch, and Westport passengers are being taken through to connect with this. Owing to the weather there has been no work on the waterfront since 10 a.m. yesterday. An agreement has been reached in. the Orepuki dispute. - ! — l— —MM.—MBI