17 June 2013

Heavy rain makes driving hazardous

Heavy rain is continuing to fall around Canterbury making driving conditions hazardous.

The current forecast suggests a further 60 to 70mm of rain is expected up to 6pm this evening in parts of Canterbury.

The Canterbury Civil Defence Emergency Management Group is urging Canterbury residents to avoid non-essential travel.

“Civil Defence staff are continuing to work with other organisations to monitor river levels and surface flooding, said Neville Reilly, Regional Civil Defence Group Controller.

“We are urging residents throughout much of Canterbury to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary after heavy rain continues to fall.

“Those who do need to travel should take extreme care on the roads and reduce speeds to suit the conditions. When driving through surface flooding, large potholes could be concealed.

“Residents should regularly check weather forecasts for updates today, and over the coming days, with heavy snow also forecast later in the week.

“If you do need to travel, please check your local council’s website for the latest information on road and bridge closures,” he said.

Neville Reilly said there are also a number of river warnings in place around Canterbury.

“Rivers around Canterbury, particularly foot-hill fed rivers, have risen rapidly as a result of the rain and wet ground conditions.

“Most river systems are coping with the high flows and are not expected to cause significant problems, but it is important residents are aware of the associated risks. We are advising residents to keep away from rivers and other waterways as a precaution.

“We would also encourage people to be prepared for the possibility of any hazardous winter conditions and ensure emergency supplies are fully stocked.

“As a good rule of thumb, everyone should have the necessities in place to be able to be self-sufficient for three days or more in the event of road closures and power cuts,” he said.

Farmers should also consider shelter options for stock, and move them to higher ground.

He added there are a number of places people can find information on weather conditions and warnings including www.metservice.com and www.cdemcanterbury.govt.nz .

Members of the public should visit their local council’s website, or phone them, for further Civil Defence information including road closures and boil water notices.

ENDS

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