STORM & RAIN

Wairarapa Times-Age, 4 July 1938, Page 9

STORM & RAIN

FLOODS IN MANY PARTS OF CANTERBURY

WATERS INVADE URBAN AREAS SOME MOTORISTS STRANDED (By Telegraph—Press Association.) CHRISTCHURCH, July 3. Serious flooding in many parts of Canterbury was caused by a southwesterly storm which swept the province today as a climax to several days of bad weather. At Leeston heavy rain caused flooding in the township, with streams of water running through the main street, Some residents left their homes for the night when water entered, and in most of the dwellings the flood waters were welling to the top of the foundations by 7 o’clock tonight, and rain was still continuing. On the main south road between Rolleston and Geraldine, the water was over the roads in scores of places, and Aiany small cars were reported to be temporarily stranded along the roqdside last night, although bigger vehicles, including the service cars, got through. The road from Christchurch to Bank’s Peninsula, also carried much surface water, and there were reported to be slips near Birdling's Flat, although the road was still open. A general warning to take special care was broadcast for motorists intending to use the road from Lincoln to Leeston, and in the direction of Irwell, by the Transport Department. Watercourses on the roads in many parts of the province have been turned by the rain to swift rivers, and reports of motor-cars in difficulties have been received from many quarters. In the city there was some flooding caused in low-lying residential areas on the banks of the Heathcote River, which is affected also by heavy tides.