Rotorua Lakes Council says rain has eased and the Ngongotahā stream is not expected to flood overnight after residents were earlier urged to prepare to evacuate.
Photo: RNZ / Rebekah Parsons-King
The council is monitoring stream levels following heavy rain in the area over the last 12 hours.
Earlier this evening, council staff went door to door near the stream, urging residents to prepare to evacuate their homes.
But the council has now dialled back the concern, and says it will keep residents posted if there is any increased risk to people and property.
In a statement on its Facebook page at 6.30pm on Monday evening, the council said it, along with the Bay of Plenty Regional Council, was closely monitoring stream levels after 135mm of rainfall in the last 12 hours.
"We are not expecting any evacuations to be necessary at this stage, but will continue to carefully monitor the situation, and it would be sensible for residents to prepare to evacuate just in case."
"Road users are reminded that driving conditions will also be hazardous with surface flooding and poor visibility in heavy rain.
"Keep a close eye on rising water levels and emergency services will advise you if evacuation is required."
The statement said if people required assistance to call the council on 07 348 4199 and to call 111 if it was an emergency.
If you require assistance please phone Rotorua Lakes Council on 07 348 4199. If it is an emergency phone 111.
Evacuation preparation advice
Advice for preparing to evacuate/evacuating in the event of flooding:
- Lift valuable household items and chemicals as high above the floor as possible.
- Fill bathtubs, sinks and storage containers with clean water in case water becomes contaminated.
- Turn off utilities if told to do so by authorities as it can help prevent damage to your home or community. Unplug small appliances to avoid damage from power surges.
- Where possible, move pets inside or to a safe place, and move stock to higher ground.
- Residents leaving their houses should take the following - warm clothes, medications, toiletries, some food, water and important documents such as passports, family photographs and insurance policies.
- Listen to your radio for updates.
- Never try to walk, swim, or drive through swift water. If it is moving swiftly, even water 15 centimetres deep can sweep you off your feet and 30cm of water may cause you to lose control of your vehicle.
- If you come to a flooded area, turn around and go another way.
- If your car stalls, abandon it immediately and climb to higher ground.
- Look out for flooding at highway dips, bridges, and low areas. 0.6 metres of water will carry away most vehicles, including SUVs, utility vehicles and light trucks.
- Stay away from underpasses. Underpasses can fill rapidly with water, while the adjacent roadway remains clear. Driving into an underpass can quickly put you in 1.5 to 1.8 metres of water.
- If you have a disability or need support, make contact with your support network.
You can find more information from Rotorua Lakes Council here.
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