1pm Thursday 6 March 2014

1pm update: Council managing flood cleanup

A section of Brittan Terrace and Park Terrace in Lyttelton remains closed today after a slip damaged a fuel storage tank.

Teams are regularly assessing the site and it is anticipated the road will remain closed for the next 24 hours. Further updates will be provided as they come to hand.

An alternative route for people needing to travel through the affected area is via Cressy Terrace. It should be noted this is for light vehicles only. Another option is State Highway 75 and Gebbies Pass. Dyers Pass Road is now open although care is urged.

Welfare centres that were operating in Mairehau and Woolston closed last night.

The Council Land Drainage Operation Team have all available staff and contractors working across the city to clear all storm-water drains, gutters, sumps and connections. This will assist with allow all storm water to drain away.

The city's transport network is generally operational apart from some isolated road closures, such as Avonside Drive. People travelling are asked to take extra care and be vigilant for storm debris and potholes that may have been caused by the heavy rain. It is advised that extra time is allowed for travel.

Banks Peninsula Update
There is an adequate water supply in Akaroa, Little River, Wainoni, Takamatua, Duvauchelle, and Birdlings Flat with fresh-water tankering in place where required. Orion are restoring full power to all treatment plants by today. Normal water and power service will be back in place from tomorrow.

Health and safety
The Council warns that floodwaters are likely to be contaminated and people should avoid contact. The Council is asking residents to take care if you have come into contact with water that may be contaminated. The Council is carrying out testing of drinking water supplies as a precaution.

Cleanup advice:
* Get rid of food that may have been in contact with contaminated water.
* Take care with what you do when handling water-damaged household effects, furniture, flooring materials etc as they will have been in contact with potentially contaminated water.
* Contact your insurer first - they will tell you if you need to take photos etc. Seek advice on whether drying out is going to be a safe solution, or replacement is necessary.
* Use the kerbside wheelie bin collection service that you already have at your house to dispose or recyle household waste.
* EcoDrop and Transfer stations are open for you to dispose of large quantities of waste or items that are not collected through the kerbside collection service

Road closures covered by temporary traffic management
For latest roading updates, please refer to the Transport for Christchurch website, www.transportforchristchurch.govt.nz

Kerbside collection
Kerbside collections will continue as normal. The Council contractors are advising that residents leave their bins out and they will be collected when road conditions allow.

Collections in the red zone will not take place today due to impassable road conditions. A further road condition assessment will take place today and following that, we will update on when the next red zone rubbish collection will take place.

Personal support

Canterbury Support Line
Website www.msd.govt.nz and click 'Canterbury Earthquake support and assistance' in the quick-links.
Phone 0800 777 846 or 04 916 3300 (Available between the hours of 9am and 11pm, 7 days a week)

Winter Make It Right
People with earthquake issues that have been made worse by the weather can make use of the Make It Right service, a joint effort between the Canterbury Earthquake Recovery Authority and Community Energy Action. Contact 0800 777 846.

Student Volunteer Army
The Student Volunteer Army have made themselves available to assist with the clean up. For help with call or text 027 698 6383 or email president@sva.org.nz

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