Civil Defence in Gisborne is contacting residents in low-lying and flood-prone areas around the city to move outdoor furniture and other gear to higher ground ahead of the predicted rain and wind from ex-Cyclone Hola overnight.

Tairawhiti Civil Defence Emergency Management Group manager Louise Bennett said staff are using text, email and land lines to notify residents in areas along the city rivers to act while it remains daylight.

‘The current forecast has rain and wind having an impact on the district but the variation in models makes it difficult to be sure about just how big or small the impact will be. However, we still want people to be prepared and to stay safe. It’s better to move furniture, waka and kayaks and other equipment to higher ground while they can.’

Based on the current models, the latest weather predictions are for some rivers to reach peak levels around 5am. High tide is at 3.30am.

People are advised to listen to the radio and keep an eye on Tairawhiti CDEM Facebook page, Council’s website gdc.govt.nz and flood monitoring models.

The situation continues to be monitored.

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