Storm preparations intensify

Plans are in place and people are out in the field as Far North District Council contractors and staff prepare for today’s storm which is predicted to intensify from about 3pm today.

Heavy sustained rainfall of up to 100mm is forecast for the district, especially about the eastern hills with the possibility that intensities could reach 15 to 25mm per hour in embedded thunderstorms.

District facilities general manager Alastair Wells says flooding can be expected in and around Kaeo, Awanui, Kawakawa, Kerikeri Town Basin, Larmers Road, Kaitaia, Otiria and Motatau. A flashpoint is predicted with the east coast high tide at around 4pm.

Mr Wells says the district is already saturated with sodden ground and swollen rivers and road maintenance crews are working to clear roadside drains in an effort to keep water flowing and prevent underslips.

‘”Despite their efforts, the contractors will not get around all the roads in the district that were affected by Saturday’s floods,” he said. ‘’We are advising people to stay at home and not venture out on the roads unless they really have to. Conditions are already hazardous with slips, partial blockages and some surface flooding and there is a possibility that motorists could become stranded by sudden, rapidly rising floodwater as they did last year.”

Road crews are getting together the signs and equipment they are likely to need in the event of flooding and contractors have removed three of the seven spans on the Kerikeri basin bridge to lessen the risk of trapped debris causing flooding to the stone store and mission house.

Council monitoring officers are out and about in the district helping the council keep watch over today’s developments.

Mr Wells says key civil defence staff will be ready to pick up the reins as weather patterns become more apparent. “We are planning, preparing and getting the people we need while we wait for the storm to develop,” he said.

“Our advice meanwhile is for people to stay at home, monitor weather forecasts, prepare for floods in the eastern communities known to be flood prone and check both the Far North District Council and Northland Regional Council websites for ongoing information – www.fndc.govt.nz and www.nrc.govt.nz , if they have web access. Information is also available from the district council on 0800 920 029.