Council prepares for more rain

Council staff do not expect rain forecast for Thursday and Friday to result in homes flooding in areas affected by last weekend's damaging storm.

More wet weather is predicted for Christchurch.

Hill areas are still very wet after last weekend, and king tides expected. This may cause isolated areas of street flooding in low lying areas. Pumps remain in key areas to be used if needed.

"While we are anticipating rain and king tides, at this stage we do not expect a tidal surge. We are keeping in close contact with NIWA and MetService to get the best possible information to help us plan the most appropriate response," Council Land Drainage Manager Keith Davison said.

"We will know more by later this afternoon when we see how basins in the upper Heathcote area are responding to the rainfall."

If flooding does occur:

• Continue to treat all flood water as contaminated - so wash your hands thoroughly after you've been in contact with flood waters and mud/silt. Regular household bleaches can be used to clean surfaces.
• If you have to travel through water on the road, please drive carefully and slowly. Surges from cars into properties can cause damage and spread contaminated water.

A local state of emergency declared on Saturday in response to flooding was lifted on Tuesday afternoon.

Contractors cleared flood debris from rivers, storm-water grates and sumps around the city after the weekend flooding.  In Southshore, the emergency bund is in place to prevent water coming through low spots along the estuary edge

New Zealand Transport Agency is warning that snow and ice are already affecting and closing a number of southern highways today. They encourage drivers to check NZTA's traffic link for updates before travelling on South Island roads as conditions may change quickly. With severe weather warnings in place motorists are also advised to check MetService. 

• It is possible that rain may impact on Council-owned sports fields this weekend and a decision will be made on Friday.  Information about any closures will be posted on the relevant sports codes' websites.  Sports fields have been closed for training this week in a bid to protect them for play on Saturday.