Effects of the Gale.

Manawatu Herald, 9 April 1904, Page 3

Effects of the Gale.

TRAIN DERAILED NEAR MANAKAU. The southerly gale continued on Thursday with renewed violence until the evening. Railway traffic on both the Government and Manawatu lines was considerably disorganised. Old residents in the Manawatu district state that the wind was beyond parallel. On the line between Otaki and Manakau the train from Paikakariki for Palmerston was derailed. As it was rounding a wind-swept point, a huge gust of wind overbalanced an empty truck, with the result that nine other waggons were derailed. Fortunately no one was injured, and the train got through after a delay extending over two hours. At the time the accident occurred the train was going almost dead slow, so it may be imagined that the force of the gale was terrific. At Palmerston shop windows were blown in in all parts of the town, and the heavy rain that accompanied the gale did considerable damage to goods. At Mr L. Simmons’ shop, where alterations are proceeding, a plate-glass window was blown in, and about £7O worth of stock was damaged by water. A portion of M r E. Stevenson’s stables is Rangitikei street was demolished, and numerous premises, including fences, sheds, trees and chimneys also suffered damage. The largest chimney in Palmerston, at the brick works in Church street, was brought down With a crash, causing injury to the buildings in the immediate vicinity. Many private residences have been affected, including those of Messrs R. S. Abraham (Fitzherbert) and J. Strang (Hokowhitu). The loose-boxes at Awapuni racecourse were demolished, the rooffing iron being carried a considerable distance by the wind. A new stand that was being erected in the outside paddock also collapsed. Fitzherbert farmers report that native trees were uprooted in all directions, and several corn stacks blown completely away. The telegraph wires were carried away below Shannon, cutting oft direct communication with Wellington. Messages are temporarily being sent through Wanganui.