Managing flooding
Most of our stormwater network was designed and built years ago to be able to manage normal rainfall and the more common storm events. Many heavy rain events now can easily exceed that, and be highly localised – swamping the network and causing flooding.
Heavy rain overwhelm the stormwater and wastewater networks in a matter of moments. There are some things residents can do to protect their property and reduce the risk of flooding on their property.
Before the flood occurs, do this:
- Check the gutters and drains on your property, and clear of debris so water can drain away easily.
- Keep known areas of overland flow or low areas on your property clear of any items
- Raise valuable items to higher places if you are worried about flooding.
- It is always a good idea to have an emergency water supply and grab-and-go bag ready, including dry towels and sanitising gel.
Before forecast heavy weather events, Tiaki Wai and councils will check on known trouble spots and risk areas, ensuring stormwater grates, inlets and outlets are clear.
During the flood, do this
If your property or neighbourhood is being affected by flooding, there are a few things you should do
- Ensure your personal safety – have your emergency grab-and-go bag ready in case things get worse.
- Treat all floodwater as contaminated. Do not play in it, and wash your hands after coming into contact with it before touching food or your face.
- If you have to go outside, be extremely careful. Overwhelmed stormwater networks could have hidden hazards.
- Evacuate if needed, move to higher ground if possible.
- Contact emergency services on 111 if you need urgent assistance.
In some areas wastewater overflows are a common occurrence after rain events. This is caused by rain water over saturating the ground, causing stormwater to find its way into the wastewater network. To see if there has been a wastewater overflow in your area look on our network status map.
Once the flooding is over, do this
If your property has been affected by flooding, you may need to make an insurance claim. Take photos of damage if you can.
- If you have suffered flooding damage to your property, please contact your insurance provider, and the Natural Hazards Commission. If you are renting, please contact your landlord first.
- Report the facts of flooding to your council and/or Tiaki Wai. Information about flooding will be useful for flood investigations and future planning.
Flood mapping
Do you know your flood risk? Check out the map for your council
Wellington City Council
Porirua City Council
Hutt City Council
Upper Hutt City Council