Saturday, March 30, 2024

Relentless rain impacts Marlborough

Heavy rainfall over the weekend has wreaked havoc on roads in the Marlborough district, with surface flooding, road closures and sewer system overflows being reported.

Marlborough District Council’s Operations and Maintenance Engineer, Stephen Rooney says Blenheim experienced intense rainfall between 5.30pm and midnight on Saturday, with 25mm recorded during this period.

“This has caused some surface flooding around Blenheim particularly in Taylor Crescent, Stephenson Street and Houldsworth Street; and in Renwick,” Mr Rooney said.

“The flood pump station at the end of Redwood Street is operating, however we expect it will take until at least lunchtime before this area drains,” he said.

“The sewer system is again full and overflowing at a number of locations in Blenheim which means toilets will be slow to flush.”

“We advise people to treat all surface water as if it’s contaminated with sewage – please take hygiene precautions when coming into contact with surface water,” Mr Rooney said.

Heavy rain has also affected local roads and the State Highway network in Marlborough.

State Highway 1 is subject to a 30 km/h speed restriction between the Awatere Valley Road turn-off and Seddon township.

A similar speed restriction is in place at Weld Pass to allow road crews clear debris from flooding and slips.

State Highway 63 reopened last night between Anglesea and Alma Street after being closed earlier in the day due to flooding.

There are slips on SH1 between Blenheim and Picton and SH6 near the Marlborough Airport, between Jacksons Road and Godfrey Road is closed.

Waikakaho Road in Tuamarina is also closed due to trees blocking the road.

Council says drivers should be prepared for hazardous conditions and delays – slips, localised flooding, rock falls, and the potential for road works and road closures.

For the latest updates on the status of local roads visit: www.marlborough.govt.nz/services/alerts

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