Please clear stormwater grills ahead of heavy rain

Heavy rain has been forecast for Nelson, prompting the Nelson City Council to ask residents to clear leaves and other rubbish from any stormwater grills near their property.

"If sumps are blocked, rain water can quickly build up, adding to the risk of flood damage," says Alec Louverdis, Senior Executive Technical Services. “Leaves falling and blocking the grills can be a problem. Everyone’s help with this is much appreciated."

The caution follows the issue of a severe weather warning from the Met Service for the ranges of Northwest Nelson.

Rain is forecast to be heavy from midnight tonight to midnight Friday with 150-170mm of rain expected. The heaviest falls are likely to be after 9am Friday with intensities reaching 20 – 25 mm an hour.