New Zealand deploys army after heavy rain, 300 homes evacuated | Abroad

Due to the storm, rivers overflowed their banks. Authorities have declared a state of emergency in the Canterbury region. The 35,000-dwelling town of Ashburton, near Christchurch, is effectively cut off from the outside world. “Four bridges have collapsed,” said Mayor Neil Brown, who also announced that 17 roads have been closed. “There is a lot of damage.”

Residents in need receive help from the armed forces. An army helicopter was able to rescue three people at Ashburton. It involved a man who had sought refuge in a tree and a couple standing on the roof of a car. Local media say some 300 homes have also been evacuated. Aid workers receive people in schools and sports halls.

Better weather seems to be on the way now. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern wants to visit the disaster area on Tuesday.

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