Pigeon Post News: Be prepared as heavy rainfall forecast for Nelson Tasman region

Friday, May 5, 2023

Be prepared as heavy rainfall forecast for Nelson Tasman region

August 20 2022 flooding

Nelson Tasman Civil Defence and Emergency Management Group -

Public information release to Nelson and Tasman 4 May 2023

Nelson Tasman residents should prepare for heavy rainfall that may hit the region on Thursday night through to Saturday afternoon. Forecasts are currently estimating over 250mm to 350mm of cumulative rainfall in some catchments over 42-45 hours.

Even though the path of the weather may change, Nelson Tasman Civil Defence and the region's Mayors are encouraging people to be ready.

Nelson Mayor Nick Smith is recommending people prepare now.

“These rainfall forecasts are sufficiently serious to be concerned. We should prepare for the worst and hope for the best.

"Make sure you have a plan and check on your neighbours or loved ones to be ready for whatever happens. If the weather hits during the day, think about how you will get home or pick up your children from school. We want everyone to be safe if this bad weather does hit.

“I was first briefed on Wednesday night, had an hour-long Teams session yesterday with the full Civil Defence Emergency Management team and wish to assure the community that we are well prepared if this develops into a major event.”

Tasman Mayor Tim King reiterated the need to be ready and safe.
“Our Emergency Management team are monitoring the event, and are on standby if required.

“I encourage people to make sure they are ready. Our rural support networks are already contacting farmers to make sure stock are safely out of flood zones. For any tourists to our region, we strongly recommend they stay away from rivers, as they could rise rapidly depending on the intensity of the rain."

It is also recommended that people avoid travelling during heavy rainfall and to keep the roads clear. This will allow first responders and emergency services to respond quickly if needed. Waka Kotahi will be providing updates on the State Highway network.

Are you ready?

Keep up to date with MetService weather forecasts.
Is your emergency kit up to date? Make sure you have food and water to last three days, and a battery-powered radio to stay informed.
Do you have a plan? What would happen if the heavy rainfall happens during the day or at night? Make sure you are ready if the weather did turn bad.
Check on your neighbours and anyone who might need your help.
Put safety first. Don’t take any chances.
In an emergency, call 111.