Niue warned to take storm surges into account after Heta

[senorpepr]

The regional body responsible for disaster management in the South Pacific has recommended a coastal hazard zone be declared in cyclone devastated Niue.

The South Pacific Applied Geoscience Commission, SOPAC, says no rebuilding of public infrastructure should be allowed within the zone, reports Sean Dorney from Niue.

SOPAC says Niue's cliffs cannot protect it from storm surges which have flooded areas more than 40 metres above sea level.

SOPAC's Acting Director, Dr Russell Howorth, says a submerged flat terrace 50 metres wide and 15 metres deep off Niue's capital, Alofi, acted as a ramp for the seawater as it rushed ashore.

Niue authorities now have the opportunity to implement planning guidelines recommended by SOPAC in 1996, says Dr Howorth.

These include the need for public buildings such as schools, churches, hospitals and offices to be set back from the cliff edge.

Tourist facilities such as hotels and restaurants may benefit from coastal scenic views available only within the hazard zone but that if their development is permitted all involved must recognise the risk of storm wave damage, he says.