Flood options explored

Following two ‘cloud burst’ floods in just nine days, council is working hard on short and longer-term solutions, with Cobden one area discussed at the monthly council meeting yesterday.

Immediately, drainage systems were cleared in the CBD and work is moving to Cobden. Work was done on Runanga’s Raleigh Creek yesterday, removing a restriction.

Council has implemented improved protocols to ensure in-person checks are completed for the Range Creek floodgate during un-forecast events.

Staff are also investigating which areas were most impacted and will report back to the September meeting on possible mitigation measures.

If your house or business had water in it, please contact council and let us know.

Mayor Tania Gibson said it was distressing to see residents and businesses affected.

“Myself and our staff have been working closely with residents to understand the issues and look at ways we can help mitigate the areas worst affected.

“However, the sheer volumes of rain we have experienced in these isolated events are significant, and there is a point where even the best infrastructure would struggle to cope.

“I know people’s nerves are heightened whenever heavy rainfall is forecast, particularly when they have previously experienced flooding and are concerned about their homes or businesses.

“We will continue to work with affected residents, identify what can be done to reduce the impacts, and ensure their concerns are heard.”

During both July floods, more rain fell than the stormwater pipes can cope with, and council received many complaints.

The July 15 flood hit Karoro, with a downpour of at least 50mm/hour in just 30 minutes.

Sawyers Creek rose almost 3m in two hours. No heavy rain warnings were in place.

A second un-forecast cloud burst overnight into July 24 hit the Greymouth CBD, Cobden, Dobson and Runanga areas.

One private weather station recorded 76.2mm in one hour, creating flash flooding that carried rocks, gravel, silt and debris, and even a mattress and a sheet of plywood.

Numerous houses, a school hall and businesses suffered direct water ingress, while cars and outbuildings were also flooded.

Staff and the mayor have met with affected residents.

If residents are concerned about more bad weather later this week, we have pre-filled sandbags available, along with more bags that can be filled, from 11am today on Preston Road. Bring your own shovel.