With more rain forecast to hit Marlborough this evening, locals are urged to be prepared.

Council’s Hydrologist, Val Wadsworth, says while the rainfall isn’t predicted to be as heavy or as intense as it was two weeks ago, the region is already saturated which means it won’t take as long for water to build up in some areas.

As a precaution, State Highway 63, from the intersection of State Highway 6 to Anglesea Street in Renwick will be closed from 7.00 pm this evening until 6.00 am tomorrow morning (Tuesday 26 July), to allow heavy machinery to access this stretch of road if required. All traffic will be diverted through Renwick during this time.

Marlborough Roads Manager, Steve Murrin, said crews are prepared should there be any flooding on local roads.

“While the MetService is forecasting the Kaikōura Coast will be most affected by this evening’s rain, we will keep a close eye on areas around Ward and the Lower Awatere that were impacted by the heavy rain a couple of weeks ago, as well as the fords on the Wairau Plains.”

“We urge motorists to take care when driving on the already damaged roads of Kenepuru and Queen Charlotte Drive,” Mr Murrin said.

Council’s Operations and Maintenance Engineer, Stephen Rooney, says the sewer system in Blenheim and Seddon is likely to fill up quickly given it’s already running high after the recent rainfall event.

“We are working on strategies to try to overcome this issue however, if people notice their toilet is slow to flush, please only do so if necessary.”

Meanwhile, if people are planning on walking or cycling in the Wither Hills Farm Park or along the Taylor River, they are urged to take care given both areas are still very wet from the previous rainfall event.

The MetService will update its forecast later this evening. People are advised to heed weather warnings and keep an eye on the MetService website or app, and follow news reports. For the latest Council related alerts visit: www.marlborough.govt.nz or download the Antenno app.

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