Dust storms have drawn scientists from all over the country to Hawke's Bay due to their concerning effects. While there is still a significant amount of silt to be removed from Cyclone Gabrielle, the imminent end of cleanup funding and the upcoming El Niño conditions have prompted authorities to install monitoring equipment to gauge the dust's impact.
The Esk Valley has been transformed into what seems like a desert, with piles of silt and persistent winds exacerbating the issue. High-tech wind readers are among 20 different tools aiding scientists in understanding the impact of these dust storms on the local community.
NIWA principal technician Tony Bromley emphasised the challenges posed by these conditions, saying, "Everything is going to be dusty, it's all over".
"It's in our clothing, it's in our hair, it's in our shower tonight."
In their quest to gather data, NIWA is installing webcams, sensors, and filter readers.
NIWA air quality scientist Ian Longley said filter readers collect samples that "can be analysed in the laboratory and it kind of mimics the human respiratory tract".
Scientists at the institute are keeping a close eye on the expansion of the dust storms, especially with the windy periods brought about by El Niño. There is a potential for these dust storms to reach as far as Napier, affecting a wider population.
To address the issue, authorities are also installing monitoring gadgets in homes, including indoor air quality equipment.
Eskdale School, with a student population of 300, is taking precautions by placing units in their classrooms, allowing them to activate air purifiers when needed to protect students from inhaling the dust.
Once the collected data is analysed, it will be shared with local health providers.
Te Whatu Ora Medical Officer of Health Dr Bridget Wilson is advocating for measures to reduce community exposure to dust, including silt removal and planting to secure silt in place.
However, the government funding allocated for silt removal is expected to end next week, despite only half of the silt being cleared and a remaining $70 million budget to address the issue.
Eskdale School principal Tristan Cheer expressed concern about the situation and its potential for it to become the "new normal".
"Usually, the wind blows the dust down the valley but we do occasionally get north-westers which blows it to the school. We have to keep everyone indoors," he said.
"When you look around and see the mountains of silt still sitting around, to think that might be the end of it is really concerning.
"We don't want this to be our new normal as a school where we have to make a decision if we can go outside or not."
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