Changing forecasts mean flooding in Dunedin is now more likely and preparations have ramped up in response.

As at 9am this morning, about 20mm of rain has fallen. This has meant some minor surface flooding in areas such as Portsmouth Drive, Marne Street and Macandrew Bay, but there have been no major roading or stormwater issues.

The Dunedin City Council is closely monitoring the situation ahead of heavier forecast rain this afternoon. Staff and contractors have been working since 4am today to make sure systems are clear and running well.

The Dunedin Emergency Operations Centre opened at 9.30am to monitor and co-ordinate the situation.

DCC Civil Defence Controller Sandy Graham says, “The latest forecast predicts 60mm of rain between midday and 4pm. This is a significant amount of rain which has the potential to cause flooding issues, slips and disruption to traffic.

“Staff and contractors, and Civil Defence personnel are therefore doing all they can to ensure the city is prepared for the anticipated downpour.”

The areas most likely to be affected by flooding are low-lying areas such as South Dunedin and Mosgiel. Heavy rain may also cause localised issues for the hill suburbs.

Roading issues

Residents should be aware some roads will be closed early, with detours available, if surface flooding becomes an issue. Keeping vehicles off roads with a lot of surface water means water is less likely to wash into properties.

Sandbags

People concerned about rising water can pick up sandbags from the locations below from 11.30am. Sandbags will be filled and ready to be collected.

• South Dunedin – car park behind St Clair Tennis Club, Victoria Road
• Mosgiel – Memorial Park car park beside the stadium/Mosgiel Memorial Gymnasium

Slip sites around the city are being checked, with no reported problems at this stage. All DCC stormwater screens are clear. We are continuing to monitor the situation and crews will be checking screens to ensure they are kept clear of debris.

General preparedness

We are advising people to be prepared. Things you can do include:

• Check spoutings and drainage channels for blockages and clear them if necessary
• If your basement is prone to flooding lift items that could be damaged by water off the floor. Be sure garden sprays and other chemicals won’t be affected
• Check grates near your house for blockages and keep them clear of leaves and other debris to avoid water building up and affecting your property.

For the public to keep up to date with what is happening and for advice about what to do if the rain gets worse, please see the DCC website, DCC social media, listen to the radio and use other media.

Please refer family, friends and neighbours to these communication channels.

www.dunedin.govt.nz

www.facebook.com/DunedinCityCouncil

https://twitter.com/DnCityCouncil

© Scoop Media