Timaru still on water conservation alert amid weather warnings

The amount of treated water stored for Timaru urban users was more than 55% yesterday, but conservation measures remain in place with severe weather expected over the weekend.

A Timaru District Council spokesperson said the amount stored gave the district good resilience for the upcoming weather event, with orange heavy rain and strong wind warnings in place for the Canterbury High Country.

‘‘We are continuing to increase this [the level of water stored] today [Friday],’’ the spokesperson said.

‘‘Council staff are continuing to monitor Timaru water and keep a close eye on the weather situation. Water conservation measures are still in place.’’

Residents on the Timaru urban supply were first warned of an emerging problem more than a week ago, which was upgraded to an ‘‘urgent water conservation notice’’ last Friday as it was dangerously close to running out.

The orange heavy rain warning, for the headwaters of the Canterbury lakes and rivers about and south of Arthur’s Pass, is valid from 6pm yesterday to 1pm tomorrow.

The MetService said people should expect 180 to 240 millimetres of rain about the main divide, and 70 to 130mm within 25km east of the divide.

‘‘Peak rates of 15 to 25 mm an hour about the divide. Note that significant snow melt is likely to occur. Freezing level around 2400 metres,’’ the MetService said.

‘‘Heavy rain may cause streams and rivers to rise rapidly. Surface flooding and slips are also possible and driving conditions may be hazardous.’’

Meanwhile, the orange strong wind warning is in place for the Canterbury High Country until this morning.

Northwest gales are forecast to be severe at times, with damaging gusts of 140 to 160kmh in exposed places.

‘‘Strong wind gusts could damage trees, power lines and unsecured structures. Driving may be hazardous, especially for high-sided vehicles and motorcycles.’’

Forecast northwest gales are expected to be severe at times, with gusts of 120kmh in exposed places.