MEDIA RELEASE

Tuesday 17 July, 2012
9.00am

Possible flooding in Ohura township

Rain has eased off in the north of the region but the Ohura River near Taumarunui is yet to peak say Horizons Regional Council emergency management staff.

“The Ohura River is starting to peak at around 11.5 metres at Tokorima and we anticipate there will be flooding. Current reports are that Ohura is no longer accessible by vehicle and Ruapehu District Council staff are working to assess the situation,” Horizons emergency manager Shane Bayley says.

“We also have emergency staff in the area and will continue to work closely with the Ruapehu District Council to respond.”

The State Highway between Taumarunui and Whangamomona is closed and a number of other local roads are also closed due to slips and flooding. Motorists are being advised to take care and avoid driving through flood waters.

More information on road closures can be found on the AA roadwatch website http://maps.aa.co.nz/traffic/roadwatch

Concern has passed for other rivers in the region.

The Whanganui River peaked at Pipiriki at 9.30pm and is expected to pass freely under the town bridge at around 9.30am.

The Rangitikei River peaked at Mangaweka at 11.45pm at 4.3 metres.

Horizons will continue to monitor the situation and update the public as the situation changes.

Ends

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