20 December 2022

* 4pm update – Waiohine Gorge Road closed due to sizeable slip

MetService New Zealand has issued a SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WATCH for a period of 8 hours from 2pm to 9pm Tue, 20 Dec and HEAVY RAIN WARNING for the Tararua District and Wairarapa north of Featherston from 2pm Tue, 20 Dec – 5am Wed, 21 Dec

𝗛𝗲𝗿𝗲’𝘀 𝘄𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘄𝗲’𝗿𝗲 𝗱𝗼𝗶𝗻𝗴:

🚗 Our roading team is patrolling the roading network to keep an eye on flash flooding and whether any road closures are needed.

🌊 We have checked the upper catchment levels and are prepared to shut off the water races if necessary

💩 We have ensured the wastewater ponds have sufficient capacity and have the generator and pump on stand-by. This means you will still be able to flush your toilets.

𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘄𝗲 𝗻𝗲𝗲𝗱 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝘁𝗼 𝗱𝗼:

☘️ Clear debris and leaves from external drains and gutters where possible.

🚗 Postpone outdoor activities and avoid non-essential travel. Drive to the conditions.

🐶Bring pets indoors. They can be unsettled by storms and it is more comforting and safer for them to be with you. Make sure livestock are not gathered under isolated trees or anything that presents a risk from a lightning strike. Move stock to safer areas as a precaution.

𝗪𝗵𝗼 𝘁𝗼 𝗰𝗮𝗹𝗹:

💧 For imminent threat of flooding to the inside of your home, call 111

🚗 Major surface flooding/debris blocking roads, call council 06 379 4030. You can also call this number after hours.

🌊 River and stream hazards, call Greater Wellington Regional Council 0800 496 734

💥 Power lines call Powerco on 0800 769 372