Whanganui District rain event - media release 3

Published on 04 April 2017

6.15pm, Tuesday April 4 2017

The Whanganui District Emergency Management has declared a state of emergency for our district.

The latest information provided by Horizons Regional Council is that the Whanganui River is expected to rise to 17.7 metres at Pipiriki by 1.00pm tomorrow, Wednesday, 5 April 2017.

If the rainfall forecast continues as predicted, it is possible the Whanganui River stop banks at Kowhai Park will be breached by mid afternoon tomorrow.

Residents in Anzac Parade and areas of Whanganui East, Taupo Quay and Putiki are advised to prepare to evacuate due to rising Whanganui River levels.

The Whanganui District Emergency Management has begun door-knocking in affected areas to advise residents to prepare now for evacuation tomorrow morning.

We are advising people to make preparations immediately. Make sure pets are ready to leave home if necessary, that vehicles are out of the way of flood waters and that important possessions are moved.

We are asking anyone who evacuates their home to check in with a Civil Defence Centre, either arriving in person, or by calling Whanganui District Council on 06 349 0001. People are reminded to take necessary medications with them and advise officials of any chronic or acute health needs.

Two Civil Defence centres are open:

  • Whanganui Girls College, Jones Street, Whanganui East

  • St Paul’s Church, opposite the Whanganui District Council’s Municipal Building in Guyton Street.

Further information

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