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