DAMAGE BY CYCLONE

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXIII, Issue 22433, 1 June 1936, Page 10

DAMAGE BY CYCLONE

NORFOLK ISLAND STORM HEAVY LOSSES FOR FARMERS The cyclone which raged over the Tasman Sea 10 days ago, delaying shipping and causing damage ,on Norfolk Island, where tho cable hut was washed away, has involved the farmers of tho island in great financial loss. Information in the latest mail from Australia shows that Norfolk Island apparently was in the path of the cyclone's greatest intensity. The storm swept tho island early on the morning of May 22 and was accompanied by torrential rain. Heavy damage was done to property, plantations, and roads. Roaring torrents carried away bridges, trees were uprooted, and swept along for hundreds of yards, and many roads were completely blocked by landslides. A temporary break in the cable service was caused when tho cable hut was swept away, but when it was restored the Administrator of the island, Captain C, R. Pinney sent a cablegram to the Department of tho Prime Minister of Australia, Mr. Lyons. Captain Pinney stated that 9)in. of rain had been recorded at Kirgston, the chief town on the island, during tlie cyclone, and that 15in. had been recorded at tho cable station. Raging floods and landslides had caused serious damage to roads, bridges, and to private property. He asked for money to be made available for necessary repairs. Mr. Lyons replied with tho following message: "Please convey to the sufferers the sympathy of tho Commonwealth Government in tho losses they have sustained. You aro authorised to spend what is necessary for the immediate relief of the fUiHerers, and for repairs and the maintenance of communications."