UPDATED: Christchurch readies for heavy rain

Pumps have been put in place in flood-prone areas of Christchurch as the city readies for a winter storm that is expected to bring very heavy rain.

Christchurch is in for a soaking over the next day or two.

A large complex low pressure system is moving across the country and the MetService is forecasting heavy rain to lash coastal Canterbury overnight tonight and Friday, and possibly into Saturday.

As a precaution Christchurch City Council has deployed pumps to the Flockton area, Ebbtide St, Breezes Rd and Maces Rd, all of which are prone to flooding.

“Staff will also be monitoring streams and grates, as well as stopbanks at high tide. We are also making provision to use the new Dudley Creek bypass pipe should it be required,’’ Council Land Drainage Manager Keith Davison said.

“Although works are ongoing, the pipe is now operational and can serve as an overflow if necessary to reduce flood risk to the Flockton area. We have also recently completed up-stream storage facilities for the Heathcote that will help.’’

Mr Davison said while the Council was taking all measures to minimise flooding it was important to note that surface flooding on streets was still likely. Roads would be closed if required.

Wastewater network were also being monitored as very heavy rainfall could cause it to become inundated with rain and flood water. This could affect the mains, meaning that in some areas people might experience slow or no service. Toilets, showers and sinks might empty slowly or in the worst cases not at all.

If that was to happen the Council would arrange any clean up to property or the environment after being notified of overflows.

The heavy rain is likely to impact on Council-owned sports fields.  Information about any closures will be posted on the relevant sports codes' websites and on Newsline.  

People travelling are being advised to check the weather forecast and the NZ Transport Agency’s Traffic and Travel webpage for the latest information on road area warnings and closures.

“Because of the end of school holidays, there will be more cars on the roads and the possibility of slips and surface flooding with the heavy rain. Please slow down in these conditions and adhere to the posted temporary speed restrictions,” says Transport Agency Journey Manager Lee Wright.