As long predicted by Climate Change scientists, extreme weather events are becoming more common around the world, and will continue to do so. Throughout the Northern Rivers, massive storms with gale-force winds on 23rd January caused serious damage to properties and uprooted many trees which knocked out power infrastructure.
In Nimbin’s main street, a huge 100-year-old gum tree brought down two power poles, forcing businesses to close for two days until power was restored. Ironically, the tree had been identified as being in poor health, and had been slated for removal by Essential Energy the following week.
Fortunately, most major roads were quickly re-opened around the region, and in Nimbin the council installed a mobile generator to maintain the town water supply. Again, emergency services were tested, and were not found wanting. We must all be prepared.
