Lahar emergency-response plan under development

2005-02-01T15:25:00+13:00

NZRCA Access Officer Graeme McIntyre is liaising with Ruapehu District Council, Environment Waikato and DoC regarding emergency procedures in the event of a lahar from Mt Ruapehu’s crater lake. A lahar would pose a serious threat to any kayakers on the Whangaehu river or nearby streams. A communications plan is being formulated, including a telephone list by which local clubs can be alerted. Locals are placing warning signs at put-ins and take-outs. Kayakers should monitor the threat levels indicated on the Environment Waikato Crater Lake Status diagram. DoC also publish a Crater Lake Status Report with diagrams (Lahar Path Map, Image showing Whangaehu Valley lahar path and location of warning sensors and bund).