Floods in Hawkes' Bay.

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume XXVII, Issue 287, 6 December 1893, Page 1

Floods in Hawkes' Bay.

Napieb, December 5. The heaviest floods experienced for years occurred last night. The whole of the lowlying country between Ormandviile and Napier, over 60 miles, being affected. Rail" way communication to that place is entirely suspended ; the permanent way is gone in numerous places, and several large bridges are either partially or totally destroyed. The country is so far under water that correct details caunot be ascertained. Thousands of dead sheep are coming down tbe rivers, and the plains around Napier are entirely under water. The roads are impassable, and all the crops are destroyed beyond redemption. Many settlers are ruined. It is feared, too, that numerous deaths will be reported. Boats were sent out from Napier to rescue families, and in some cases they bad to cut their way through roofs. So far three deaths are ascertained. Donald Macfarlane, shepherd, at Marakakahoe, with four others, were trying to seoute a suspension bridge, when all were washed away. Four were rescued, but Macfarlane was drowDed. Theltev. S. Douglas, Presbyterian minister, tried to get to Taradale in a butcher's oart, which was overthrown by the current, and Mr Douglas was drowned. A boy, name unascertained, was drowned at Clive. At Waipawa, the water is level with the eaves of the houses, and the whole place ie like a river bed. No communication can be had, but fears are entertained for the safety of the inhabitants. Nearly all the country bridges south of Napier ore more or less damaged,