Eighteen homes evacuated across Kapiti district

Kapiti update @ 12.10, May 14

Widespread flooding in the Kāpiti district has caused rivers and streams to rise.

18 homes have been evacuated from homes across the district. Surface flooding is reported from Paekākāriki to Ōtaki..

The Waikanae River has exceeded its 10 year year level and there are concerns the river will rise higher with heavy rain forecast this evening, coinciding with high tide.

Kāpiti Airport is closed because of water from a stream that has breached its banks running across the runway.

One lane of State Highway 1 is open intermittently.

KAPITI COAST RESIDENTS WHO ARE IN WELLINGTON ARE ADVISED TO STAY WITH FRIENDS AND FAMILY IF POSSIBLE OR ACCESS ACCOMODATION FOR THE NIGHT. IF YOU INTEND TO TRAVEL HOME, PLEASE LEAVE NOW. FOR RESIDENTS HEADING FROM KAPITI TO WELLINGTON THE ADVICE IS THE SAME. PLEASE STAY ON THE COAST IF YOU CAN OR LEAVE AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.

An evacuation/welfare centre has been set up at the Community Centre in Paraparaumu and volunteers are on hand to deal with any commuters who can’t get home.

Note:
There is a rumour circulating that SH 1 at the Waikanae River Bridge is going to close due to the river level

This in incorrect and the State Highway and bridge will remain open.

ends

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