TORRENTIAL RAINS

Otago Daily Times, Issue 22816, 27 February 1936, Page 9

TORRENTIAL RAINS

RIVERS RISE RAPIDLY FLOODS IN THE NORTH (Pee United Press Association) MARTON, February 26. Following phenomenal rains up-country, the Itangitikei River at 7 o'clock this evening was within a foot of the record flood level, and is still rising. At Kakariki the water is within a few feet of the railway bridge. Along the entire course of the river the flats are inundated, and elsewhere the roads are under water in many places, with the creeks overflowing near Bulls. The Rangitikei Dairy Factory is isolated by flood waters from the Tutaenui Stream. This stream overflowed above Marton, and at 4 p.m. was actually flowing along the eastern side of the main street, but fortunately it then started to recede. Torrential rains fell overnight, two inches being recorded in 14 hours. The continued wet weather recently has been disastroue to late wheat and potato crops. WAIPUKURAU, February 26. Following a heavy rainfall which ended at 9 o'clock this morning, the Tukituki River has overflowed its banks in parts. A number of settlers are preparing for eventualities by removing their stock. On account of the roads in the Origaonga district being in a flooded state, the monthly stock sale usually held on Thursday hag been postponed for a week. Over 100 scholars were absent from the Waipukurau School to-day, and it was therefore closed this afternoon. A large area is under water, but no losses are reported. The rain is easing off. PALMERSTON N., February 26. Heavy rain last night accentuated the danger of rocks falling from a spot above the railway in the Manawatu Gorge from which debris was dislodged a short time ago. In consequence passenger trains were not using the line to-day, passengers being transhipped by bus between Palmerstcm North and Woodville. The line is to be closed on Saturday and Sunday to all traffic, when remedial measures will be undertaken.