Warnings issued as heavy rain deluges Auckland

The upper North Island is being saturated by ongoing heavy rain and there’s no end in sight to the constant downpour.

Yesterday afternoon, January 20, the MetService weather agency issued a Strong Wind Watch – Yellow – for Auckland, including Great Barrier Island.

“Easterly winds may approach severe gales in exposed places. Moderate chance of upgrading to a Warning.

“Bring inside or tie down anything that can be broken or picked up by strong winds, such as outdoor furniture.

“Remove any debris or loose items from around your property.

“Report fallen trees on public property on Auckland Council Report a Problem tool.

“If your life or property is at risk, phone 111.”

Just after 10am today, the Auckland region’s heavy rain watch was upgraded to an orange warning.

The MetService has raised warnings from orange to red for Northland, Coromandel, Bay of Plenty and Gisborne north of Tolaga Bay.

Auckland has been placed under an orange heavy rain warning until 2am tomorrow, January 22.

“Expect 80mm-120mm of rain with the largest accumulations in the east and about Great Barrier Island,” the MetService says.

“Peak rates of 25 to 40mm/h in downpours in the east and about Great Barrier Island are expected from about noon today.”

Just before 8am this morning it was revealed that Whitianga in the Coromandel is cut off by floodwaters.

The New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) says State Highway 25 was closed south of Whitianga near Wade Road, meaning the township is inaccessible on SH25 from the north or south.

Adam Maggs, general manager of Auckland Emergency Management, says there’s some messy weather coming today and tonight.

“The difficulty we’re all facing is knowing exactly when and where it will land. Now’s the time to get ready and stay vigilant.

“Follow MetService forecasts for the latest info as the storm progresses, make sure outdoor furniture and items are secure.

“Prepare for power outages, get your devices charged and keep a torch and battery-operated radio handy.

“Never drive, walk or play in flood waters, call 111, immediately, if your life in in danger.

“If you live or are staying an area that is going to flooding or isolation, make sure you have a plan in case you have to shelter in place or leave quickly.

“That includes where you’ll go, what you’ll take with you, and how you’ll get there. Our teams are on duty over the next 24 hours, and we’ll keep you updated.”

NZTA says: “Take extra care on the roads in Auckland today.

“There’s a greater risk of road hazards like fallen trees, slips, and flooding, with an Orange Heavy Rain Warning in place across the region.

“Drive to the conditions, stay alert, and allow extra time for your journey as the weather system moves through.

“Our contractors are monitoring at-risk locations and clearing drains and culverts to ensure the state highway network remains safe and accessible.”

What you can do:

• Increase following distances and reduce speed if conditions deteriorate.
• Turn the headlights on, even during daytime rain.
• Where possible, avoid unnecessary travel during periods of heavy rain.

Auckland City District Police says: “With heavy rain predicted to hit areas across the district, we are asking the public to please take care while out and about on the roads.

“When you’re out in your vehicle, remember to adjust your speed according to the road and weather conditions.

“Watch out for surface flooding, as it may be deeper than it first appears.

“Please make sure that everyone in your vehicle is wearing a seat belt and that safe following distances are maintained (it takes longer to stop in the rain).

“So, let’s all do our bit to ensure everyone makes it home safely.”