N.Z. system to predict Fiji floods

Press, 26 July 1986, Page 8

N.Z. system to predict Fiji floods

A flood forecasting system recommended by a Christchurch scientist will be set up in Fiji. Dr Derek Goring, of the Ministry of Works and Development Hydrology Centre, was commissioned by the United Nations a year ago to look into the feasibility of a flood-warn-ing system.

He made a number of recommendations after studying the Rewa River catchment area from

Nayavu down to Nausori, near Suva, but nothing was done because of the Fijian Government’s lack of funds. In April this year the area was devastated by flooding in which eight people died. Dr Goring was told this week that the Public Works Department in Fiji had given the go-ahead for his warning system to be installed, if possible by the beginning of October when the cyclone season

begins. Dr Goring’s recommendation is for six telemetry stations and a base station along the stretch of river between Nayavu and Nausori. “We can’t do anything about the flooding, but we will be able to forecast the river levels 12 to 13 hours ahead so that measures can be taken to save stock and lives,” he said. The telemetry equip-

ment, worth about $70,000, is being supplied by Harding Signals, Ltd, of Wellington, and the aim is to begin installing it by the beginning of September.

Mr Mike Butler, of the M.W.D.’s hydrological field party in Alexandra, will go to Fiji for two months to set up the system and to train local staff in its operation.