Marlborough Emergency Management says ‘be prepared’ for more rain

With another spell of rain on the way on Friday, Marlborough residents are advised to ‘be ready, be prepared’ with the region’s roads, infrastructure and some communities still impacted from recent weather.

MetService has issued a Heavy Rain Warning announced from 9am Friday until 2am Saturday for Marlborough northwest of the Awatere Valley with 80 to 100 mm of rain and peak rates of 10 to 20 mm/h expected Friday afternoon and evening.

Marlborough Emergency Management Group Manager Matt Kerr said there was a risk that some situations could be exacerbated in already fragile areas.

“We want to get advice out to our communities including Spring Creek, Rārangi, Northbank, Kenepuru Road and Port Underwood that readiness remains important. Although Friday evening’s weather is predicted to move through quickly, we encourage people to take stock of their preparedness, remain in touch with friends and whanau and to have plans in place for safety and support.”

“People can prepare for heavy rain by clearing drains and gutters. Be aware that streams and rivers may rise rapidly, so avoid low-lying areas and drive cautiously if you need to drive at all. The rain could cause further surface flooding, slips and difficult driving conditions,” Mr Kerr said.

The weather has the potential to affect roads around the top of the south including State Highway 6 from Nelson to Blenheim, State Highway 1 between Picton and Seddon and State Highway 63 from Renwick to Kawatiri Junction.

NZ Transport Agency say because the region has already suffered extensive heavy rain over the past few weeks, soils are saturated and extra rain brings a risk of more flooding, slips, and rockfalls.

Flood waters can hide hidden dangers and water flows may be stronger than they appear – drivers are urged not to drive through flooded areas and to respect any road closures that may be in place.

Further updates will be provided, primarily through Marlborough District Council’s Facebook page and the Antenno alerting app.

To keep up to date with the latest information and alerts sign up to Antenno here: www.marlborough.govt.nz/services/apps/antenno

Keep an eye on MetService for watch and warning updates at www.metservice.com/warnings/home

Read the latest NZTA updates at: www.journeys.nzta.govt.nz/traffic-bulletins

For further information on emergency preparedness go to: https://getready.govt.nz/emergency/floods