Upper Waitaki Weather Event - 5.30pm
Published on 19 July 2022
Rainfall has continued throughout the day with many roads and highways predicted to remain closed for some time. The rainfall experienced is heavy and the Waitaki Emergency Operations Centre has been activated to support the impacts of this event.
Waitaki Mayor, Gary Kircher “The disruption and devastation from the weather events of the past couple of days has been significant, and more than many were expecting. Council staff and contractors are assessing damage and prioritising repair work which will be carried out as soon as possible. In some cases, that will mean waiting for streams to recede before work can start. We will continue to monitor the situation around the district and respond accordingly.”
Waitaki River Levels and Restrictions:
The dam flows may increase over the next few days meaning the Waitaki River may be higher than usual.
Water levels across the district continue to fluctuate and cannot be considered reliable at this point. Please stay off and clear of all waterways.
Boil water notices on the Otematata and Omarama Water Supplies remain. The water coming out of the tap will appear dirty, but if boiled thoroughly, is safe to drink. The conserve water notice on the Windsor Water Supply remains in place and the pumps are still turned off.
Lake Ohau Road:
The washout at Ohau Road is a priority and Civil Defence continues to support residence and visitors who are cut off.
Materials have arrived to begin repairs of the bridge. These are currently being stockpiled beside the bridge as we wait for the water to recede before repairs can begin.
State Highway Closures:
SH8 and SH83 will remain closed overnight with the next update due from NZTA at midday tomorrow. SH8 between Omarama and Twizel will be reviewed in the morning.
Other Local Roads:
Contractors are inspecting local roads and have conducted an assessment. A number of roads are closed due to flooding, washouts and landslides. Please check our website for the latest on local road closures.
We have received reports that some members of the public are ignoring the road closed signs. We must reiterate – please comply with all road signage and advisories.
Gary Kircher “In the meantime, there are some amazing volunteers out and about in our affected communities, helping protect people and property. A huge thank you to them! As always, please keep yourself safe, and please contact emergency services or Council if help is needed.”
We ask the public to continue to keep away from any waterways as river and streams may rise quickly. Please keep an eye on the WDC website for local road and the NZTA website for State Highway conditions and updates.
If there are any further reports to make, please contact the Waitaki District Council. Call us on 03 433 0300 or 0800 108 081 or service@waitaki.govt.nz. For any emergencies, please call 111.