30 JULY 2008
Canterbury Civil Defence monitoring upcoming weather front

The Canterbury Civil Defence Emergency Management Group is advising all residents in the region to prepare for a significant weather front after MetService released a severe weather outlook for today.

The forecast indicates that the weather front will hit Kaikoura around 3 p.m. this afternoon, with a possible 120 to 150 mm of rain falling in the next 24 hours. There is also a high tide predicted for 1.9 metres at 2 p.m. this afternoon that may complicate the weather situation.

“We are watching the situation very closely right now,” said Danny Smith, the Kaikoura District Civil Defence Emergency Management Controller.

The Canterbury foothills also received a heavy rain warning for up to 100 to 140 mm and 40 to 60 mm of rain in the plains. Snow is also predicted in the mountain passes above 500 metres.

Drivers are advised to take special precautions by slowing down and avoid all unnecessary journeys. People considering going over the mountain passes should take chains with them in case of snow and to check the latest weather forecasts before travelling.

The Canterbury Emergency Coordination Centre and local authority emergency management offices throughout the region will continue to monitor the situation - maintaining communication to emergency services, lifeline utilities and roading agencies. For more information, go to the www.getthru.govt.nz

#ENDS#

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