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News release
3:00pm, 20 July 2006

THIS MEDIA RELEASE SUPERSEDES ALL EARLIER RELEASES

Widespread surface flooding in Wairarapa

Heavy rain is causing widespread surface flooding throughout Wairarapa particularly in south eastern areas.

Greater Wellingtons staff is currently assessing the situation and closely monitoring river levels.

The latest MetService report issued this morning is predicting heavy rain and strong winds from Hawke’s Bay to Wairarapa and parts of Wellington. Heaviest rain is expected to be about the hills and ranges of Hawke’s Bay and the Tararua District including the Ruahines, where 70 to 100mm of rain is possible. 50 to 80mm is also likely about higher parts of Wairarapa and the eastern hills of Wellington.

Given the already saturated conditions in these areas, people are advised to be on the alert for rising rivers and streams as well as further localised flooding and slips.

The rain will be accompanied by gale southerly winds in these areas through much of today and into Friday. The strongest winds are expected to be about exposed hill suburbs of Wellington and also exposed coastal areas from Hawke’s Bay to Wairarapa, with possible severe gale gusts of 120 km/h.

Local councils continue to monitor roads and public are advised to contact their local district council office for more detailed information on road closures.

Masterton District Council 06 378 9666
Carterton District Council 06 379 6626
South Wairarapa District Council 06 306 9611

Drivers are urged to take extreme care on all roads and drive to the conditions.

Current road closures include:

Masterton District

Nil

Carterton District

Road / Location Status Time Updated Comments
SH2 between Carterton and Clareville Open 14:30 Caution Surface Flooding
Te Wharhau Road between Westmere Rd and Ruakiwi Rd Closed 14:30 Surface Flooding

South Wairarapa

Road / Location Status Time Updated Comments
SH2 between Featherston and Greytown Open 14:30 Caution Surface Flooding
White Rock Road between Lagoon Hill and Tuturumuri Closed 14:30 Surface Flooding
No 1 Line Open 14:30 Caution Surface Flooding

Lower Valley floodways are operating. The opening to the sea at Lake Onoke is open and the Barrage Gates are open.

A further release will be issued if the situation changes.

ENDS

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