WAIMAKARIRI RIVER UPDATE

This message is recorded at 5.30pm Saturday 6th March 2021.

After an extended dry period rain has fallen in the upper catchment. 200mm was recorded in the last five days with increased rain intensity last night.

The River peaked flow at 12 noon today. 265 cumecs was recorded at Otarama and is anticipated to subside quickly overnight and tomorrow.

This type of food event poses issues for the intake operation due to floating debris blocking screens reducing flow capacity through the intake. Also, when the river subsides quickly it leaves gravel built up under the screens requiring excavation. If we keep operating at full irrigation supply it is most likely damage will occur.

As a result, flow reduction needs to be made as follows:
ZONE 1: ON
ZONE 2: ON
ZONE 3: ON
ZONE 4: ON
R2 IRRIGATORS: OFF

Please note, further irrigation supply reductions may need to be made.

We are monitoring the situation overnight and will keep you updated as this event unfolds. We will be reviewing the river levels and intake operation regularly with the intention to open for full irrigation supply as soon as we can.

Jamie Hamilton
Operations Manager