Timaru District Council Civil Defence has declared a State of Emergency.

This is to allow Council and partner agencies to carry out necessary tasks in the face of surface flooding and rising rivers due to continued heavy rainfall across the district.

Areas particularly affected are the Geraldine Foothills, Geraldine and Temuka areas, as well as areas to the north of our district.

Timaru District Council and ECan staff are monitoring developments with support from local contractors.

•Due to surface flooding only emergency travel should be undertaken district wide.

•Residents in low lying areas near waterways should prepare for rising water, ensure safety of stock and be prepared to evacuate if required.

•There are a growing number of road closures around the district in particular in the Geraldine – Winchester – Temuka areas. Major roads closures include SH79 Geraldine to Fairlie, Route 72 Winchester – Geraldine.

•Anyone needing to move out of their current area due to emergency only, can get a current update on road closures by calling the main Council phone line on (03) 6877200.

•Orari – Geraldine rubbish collection scheduled for Monday will be delayed.

•Te Moana Water Scheme users must conserve water as the current conditions have caused the Te Moana water scheme some problems and it is not producing water. Repairs could take some time, please conserve water until further notice.

For further information please contact Timaru District Council on (03) 687 7200