SERIOUS FLOODING.

Horowhenua Chronicle, 4 July 1938, Page 5

SERIOUS FLOODING.

MANY PARTS OF CANTERBURY AFFECTED.

WATER INVADES HOUSES AT LEESTON

(By Telegraph—Press Association). CHRISTCHURCH, Last Night. Serious flooding in many parts of Canterbury was caused by the southwesterly storm which swept the province to-day as a climax to several days of bad weather. At Leeston heavy rain caused flooding in the township with streams of water running through the main street. Some residents left their, homes for the night when the water entered. In most of the dwellings the flood waters were welling to the top of the foundations by 7 tonight and the rain was still continuing. On the main south road between Eolleston and Geraldine the water was over the roads in scores of places and many small cars were reported to be temporarily stranded along the roadside last night although bigger vehicles, including service cars, got through. The road from Christchurch to Banks Peninsula also carried much surface water and there were reported to be slips near Birdling’s Flat although the road was still open, A general warning to take special care was broadcast for motorists intending the use of the road from Lincoln to Leeston and in the direction of Irwell was broadcast by the Transport Department, Water-courses on roads in many parts of the province have been turned by the rain to swift rivers and reports of motor-cars in difficulties have been received from many quarters. In the city there was some flooding caused in the low-lying residential areas on the banks of the Heathcote river which is affected also by heavy tides.