Potential for Ngongotahā stream to flood – prepare to evacuate
Potential for Ngongotahā stream to flood – prepare to evacuate
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UPDATE: 2pm, 31 May 2022
Fortunately the Ngongotahā stream did not overflow last night, however due to the high intensity of rainfall yesterday it did come within 0.5m of overflowing.
Last night potentially affected residents were alerted to the possibility of flooding by Council staff so they were prepared for an evacuation if required.
All residents living near streams should remain alert and monitor their local situation as water levels can rise very quickly.
A general clean-up of all networks is underway in many locations throughout the district. It will take some time before all networks (stormwater, sewers, roads) are returned to their normal condition so residents are urged to take care and be patient.
All rain and thunderstorm warnings for Rotorua have now been lifted. People are advised to keep up to date with the latest forecasts in case the situation changes.
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UPDATE: 8.50pm, 30 May 2022
The rain has now eased and the Ngongotahā stream is not expected to flood overnight. It will continue to be monitored closely.
Thank you to everyone for sharing this message so quickly. More rain is expected throughout the week so stay alert to rising water levels and we'll keep you posted if there is any increased risk to people and property.
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UPDATE: 6.30pm, 30 May 2022
Localised thunderstorms over the Kaimai Mamaku ranges this afternoon have resulted in some significant downpours of up to 57mm in 1 hour.
Tributary streams on the western side of the Kaimai Mamakus and Ngongotahā are running high and rainfall of this intensity can cause surface and/or flash flooding, especially about low-lying areas.
Bay of Plenty Regional Council and Rotorua Lakes Council are closely monitoring the Ngongotahā stream levels following rainfall of up to 135mm in the last 12 hours. We are not expecting any evacuations to be necessary at this stage, but we will continue to carefully monitor the situation, and it would be sensible for residents to prepare to evacuate just in case.
Council staff will be door knocking this evening to inform residents who may be impacted by flooding.
The Paraiti River (formally Mangorewa) has reached its second level warning and farmers in the area are encouraged to move stock to higher ground.
Rain is expected to continue to be heavy at times this evening across the region, with possible thunderstorms. Road users are reminded that driving conditions will also be hazardous with surface flooding and poor visibility in heavy rain.
Keep a close eye on rising water levels and emergency services will advise you if evacuation is required.
If you require assistance please phone Rotorua Lakes Council on 07 348 4199. If it is an emergency phone 111.
Advice for preparing to evacuate/evacuating in the event of flooding:
- Lift valuable household items and chemicals as high above the floor as possible.
- Fill bathtubs, sinks and storage containers with clean water in case water becomes contaminated.
- Turn off utilities if told to do so by authorities as it can help prevent damage to your home or community. Unplug small appliances to avoid damage from power surges.
- Where possible, move pets inside or to a safe place, and move stock to higher ground.
- If you can stay with friends or relatives outside the flooded area, please do so.
- Residents leaving their houses should take the following – warm clothes, medications, toiletries, some food, water and important documents such as passports, family photographs and insurance policies.
- Listen to your radio for updates.
- Never try to walk, swim, or drive through swift water. If it is moving swiftly, even water 15 centimetres deep can sweep you off your feet and 30cm of water may cause you to lose control of your vehicle.
- If you come to a flooded area, turn around and go another way.
- If your car stalls, abandon it immediately and climb to higher ground.
- Look out for flooding at highway dips, bridges, and low areas. 0.6 metres of water will carry away most vehicles, including SUVs, utility vehicles and light trucks.
- Stay away from underpasses. Underpasses can fill rapidly with water, while the adjacent roadway remains clear. Driving into an underpass can quickly put you in 1.5 to 1.8 metres of water.
- If you have a disability or need support, make contact with your support network.