Otago Regional Council

Roxburgh Debris Flows: Detailed Hazard and Risk Assessment 2024

The debris flow hazard and risk in Roxburgh has been identified but our analysis lacks detail. We require a detailed hazard and risk assessment to inform potential spatial planning and/or physical mitigation/adaptation options. However, we do not understand potential debris flow runouts, and the risk characteristics are not yet well-defined quantitatively or spatially. In addition, climate change and landscape evolution are likely to impact the magnitude and frequency of debris flows in the future, this must be considered. The study must be a hazard and risk assessment that is conservative, detailed, and spatially comprehensive for the catchments in the Roxburgh area. The study findings will be of value to a range of stakeholders:
• The ORC, along with the Central Otago District Council (CODC), will have a detailed and spatial understanding of the debris flow hazard and risk, from here long-term adaption/mitigation options (including spatial planning) can be designed.
• Emergency Management Otago can build their understanding of the potential event consequences and risks to improve the response to an event.
• Community members/response groups and other stakeholders will be better informed of the potential risks posed by the debris flow hazards in the Roxburgh area.