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River levels to rise to 16m in city

The Waikato River is expected to reach the 16.0m mark in Hamilton as more water is released from Karapiro today.

The increase in river levels is as a result of controlled release of pressure from Lake Karipiro, in anticipation of continued pressure on Lake Taupo which is currently at capacity.

The increased levels may bring the river level closer to residents land in the lower areas of Ann St and Awatere Ave, however it is not expected to reach property.

Civil Defence advise that there is no need to consider evacuation unless the river levels reach16.5m.

At 16.1m the river will reach the road curb and some surface road flooding is possible.

Civil Defence continues to work closely with Environment Waikato and Mighty River Power to monitor river levels.

Waikato Civil Defence Manager Paul Blewman says that the release of excess water from Karipiro is a carefully managed proactive measure in anticipation of heavy rainfall forecast for Taupo on Friday which will put further pressure on the river system.

“We are continuing to talk with residents and keep them informed of the situation.”

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