Flood Waters Receding But Many Roads Still Closed

Ten roads in Marlborough remain closed tonight and roads teams will be inspecting them regularly overnight with more rain forecast for this evening.

Marlborough Roads reports that extensive and severe damage has been caused by the flooding with road seal destroyed in some places.

The waters have begun to recede but the Taylor and Omaka Rivers are still in flood and it may be two or three days before the full extent of the damage can be assessed.

Marlborough District Council Assets and Services Manager Mark Wheeler says some roads, particularly those between Blenheim and Renwick crossed by the Omaka, may remain closed even if they look passable.

“We have to be able check out the damage before we reopen the roads. We know some seal has been lost and all culverts and bridges need to be checked. Even where roads look passable, vehicles are going to cause further damage to the carriageway if the seal has gone.”

He said some roads may have to be patched with metal in the short-term so they can be reopened.
Mr Wheeler asked people to respect the closed road signs.

“When the rivers come up so quickly culverts can be washed away and bridge supports put at risk.

Sometimes logs and other debris can be just below water level, invisible but dangerous to a vehicle. Driver behaviour has been good so far but I am asking for that patience to continue while we get a full picture of the repairs that are going to be necessary.”