Council Keeps Watching Brief On Rain Event

Gisborne District Council staff and emergency services are keeping a close eye on the weather event expected to bring the highest rainfall to the region for this year.

Between this morning and late Tuesday, about 200 to 300mm of rain is expected in the hills and ranges of the whole district and 100 and 150mm in coastal lowlands including the city.

Civil Defence controller Jon Davies says although there has not been heavy rain to date, if the rain falls as forecast this could become a notable event.

“The problem is that once the ground is saturated, most of the rainfall runs off the land into rivers and streams and that’s when it causes problems.

“We are monitoring the situation closely and maintaining close links with emergency services to deal with any issues that may arise.”

Over the past 12 hours, the rainfall averaged about 35mm with the heaviest fall of 75mm in the Waikura Valley.

Mr Davies urged people to go to Council’s website www.gdc.govt.nz for the latest information on the weather, rainfall totals and river levels.

“Meanwhile, keep an eye on the forecast and, as during all wet weather, drive safely and to the conditions, particularly with the likelihood of surface water.”

ENDS

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