GALE IN THE SOUTH

Hawera Star, Volume XLVIII, 25 January 1929, Page 9

GALE IN THE SOUTH

MOST SEVERE FOR YEARS EXTENSIVE DAMAGE CAUSED. WELLINGTON' AND CANTERBURY. (By Telegraph—Press Association.) WELLINGTON, Jan. 25. An unexpectedly severe southerly storm raged during the; early hours of this morning, and has left a trail of wreckage. A heavy downpour of rain fell dtiring the evening, but gave no indication that one of the worst southerlies ever experienced in the summer season was to follow.

The Hutt railway has again suffered severe damage, washouts having taken place at various parts between Petone and Ngahauranga and trains being confined once again to the inner track. The city was strewn with leaves l and branches, gardens being wrecked in all directions. Many boats were torn from their moorings and piled up on the beaches. The Maheno, lying in Evans Bay,' was in difficulties when one of her mooring ropes parted. The tugs Nntone and Terawhiti were sent to Evans Bay, and stood by until the big steamer was properly tied up again. CHRISTCHURCH, Jan. 25. A strong south-wester, with heavy rain and hail, has been experienced in Canterbury, damaging many ripening crops and wheat in stook. The tram service at Cashmere Hills was held up yesterday owing to the fierce gale blowing a tree over the line. TIMARU, Jan. 25. Tile highest south-east sea experienced in Tiiria.ru for many years culminated early this morning in immense rollers, which carried away approxiriiately 300 yards of the eastern extension known as Evans’ extension, which was completed 26 years ago and has long been deemed secure. The damage was confined to the middle portion of the work, where, however, all that remains of the construction are a few main piles, the others having been uprooted and swept away. When the extension was erected a large quantity of rock was deposited at the base, forming a complete protection for the inner harbour. Much of this has been swept away bodily into the channel, and until an examination has been made the practicability of working part of the port, is uncertain. At present there are no boats in port. It is anticipated that the sea will increase at high tide this afternoon, and fears are entertained that further damage will lie done. It is impossible at present to estimate the amount of the damage, hut the repairs will he very costly.