FLOOD AT WYNDHAM

Evening Post, Volume CXXIII, Issue 48, 26 February 1937, Page 10

FLOOD AT WYNDHAM

GOODS REMOVED TO SAFETY

STREETS LIKE CANALS

(By 'Olf-sraph — Press Association.)

INVERCARGILL, February 25,

The most serious flood since tb.3 Mataura River broke its banks in 1913 occurred at Wyndham today. When residents awoke this morning the recreation ground and bowling green at the north end of the town were inundated to a depth of two and a half feet in places. By 10 o'clock several of the residents in that part of the town had to leave and others who were in the path of the flood waters began to move their belongings to safety.

The flood waters moved down Ferry Street, and, crossing the main street, Balaclava Street, flowed into Alma Street.

The Mataura and Mimihau Rivers continued to rise and water was forced down Redan Street and into the main thoroughfare. By 3 o'clock the Post Office was surrounded by 2ft 6in of water, and both Balaclava Street ana Redan Street resembled canals.

Business people, alarmed by the invading waters, began moving goods to places of safety. As it was sale day, there was a crowd of farmers in town, but many hurried away as early as possible in case they should be unable to do so later. The road to Glenham was impassable and Ferry Road was also flooded. Mr. S Clarke's farm was inundated and soon had the appearance of a lake. Several other farms close to the Mataura River were also flooded, and stooks of oats were to be seen floating away on the turbulent flood waters. At 4 o'clock this afternoon the flood reached its peak . without the water entering business premises.