2 dead in city

By GYNNIE KERO and MICHAEL LAI
TWO people died in Port Moresby as heavy rain caused flooding and strong winds damaged electricity infrastructure, homes and properties.
On Thursday, the body of a boy was found boy near the Erima Bridge. The St John Ambulance, called to the scene by police after the body was found, confirmed that the boy “probably drowned in floodwaters”.
“When the ambulance arrived the boy was already dead,” St John Chief Superintendent Rigona Rita said.
On Saturday, a girl was electrocuted at Kipo settlement in East Boroko, according to PNG Power Ltd.
Acting managing director Carolyn Blacklock in a statement said East Boroko had been experiencing power outages since Friday night due to a tree which fell on a pole.
“PNG Power field team responded and disconnected supply to the area to make it safe, and then progressed onto other faults while waiting for the fallen tree to be cleared. Sometimes during the night, it seems that an unauthorised energising of this connection had occurred, rendering the service pole dangerous,” she said.
“Our initial investigations show that the young girl came into contact with this energised service pole, resulting in the electrocution.
“PNG Power is currently conducting an investigation into the cause of the accident with police and providing support to the bereaved family.”
National Disaster Office acting director Martin Mose urged communities living in flooded areas and river banks to move to higher ground.
“It is equally important for communities living inland to take extra care when moving around – stay clear of trees, power poles, billboards, old buildings and unsecured structures as they can easily give away and collapse,” he said.
“Care must also be taken when driving and travelling on roads to avoid being trapped or swept away by floods, or unnecessary accidents from poor visibility brought about by fog, heavy rain and slippery road surfaces.”
Authorities have been issuing warnings about heavy rain causing flooding and landslides associated with the monsoon trough.
National Weather Service director Samuel Maiha said the weather should improve this week.