Flood

Flooding in the Wellington region

Floods can occur along rivers, coasts or near stormwater networks in urban areas. River flooding generally occurs when high rainfall causes a river channel to become completely full and overflow onto nearby land.

Rivers have natural floodplains to accommodate flooding. However, people have modified and developed these flat, fertile areas by clearing forests and building and living there. As a result, people and property may be at risk when a nearby river floods.

When a heavy rain event occurs, rivers can burst their banks and water can enter homes and businesses. Widespread damage can happen to buildings, infrastructure and networks and lives can be lost. There can also be major damage to the river environment.

Runoff from roads and buildings and sewage overflow into stormwater systems can pollute streams, rivers and marine environments. The effects of flooding can be made worse by activities such as draining wetlands, river straightening, and deforestation.

Prepare yourself at home, work and school

There are things that you can do to prepare yourself for a flood if you live, work or go to school in a low-lying area that is prone to flooding.

Check out the before, during and after sections on this website to see what you can do to get prepared!

Before a flood

store emergency water
have an emergency survival kit
have a household emergency plan
find out about the worst flood in your area and how high it rose. Calculate where such a flood would reach in your home
know how to reach the nearest high ground
learn how to remove the water from your hot water cylinder and other alternative water sources
keep your valuables and some food and clothing above what you judge to be the high-water mark
store weedkillers, insecticides and other chemicals above your estimated high-water mark.

During a flood

listen to your radio for information. Follow civil defence advice and instructions
if you need mobility aids, insist on bringing your aid if you are evacuated. Moving to safety is fine, but you won’t want to be helpless when you get there
disconnect electrical appliances and move valuables, clothing, food, medicines and chemicals above the likely reach of the floodwater
take your emergency survival kit with you if you have to leave your home. Turn electricity and gas off at the mains only if you smell gas. Remember to wait for professional advice before reconnecting the gas supply
take your pets with you if possible
do not go into floodwaters alone
do not go sightseeing through flooded areas
do not drink floodwater - it could be contaminated.

After a flood

listen to your radio for advice and information
report injuries or fires to the emergency services (dial 111)
wet electrical connections can cause fire
do not turn on essential services until checked by the relevant authority
if your property is damaged, take notes and/or photos for the loss adjustor
do not throw anything out until you contact your insurance company
be aware that mud and debris will be contaminated
always wear protective clothing when cleaning up after flood waters
do not go sightseeing and stay out of damaged buildings
do not eat produce from a garden which has been flooded.