Heavy rain warning for Bay of Plenty and Coromandel Peninsula

Heavy rain watch in place for Bay of Plenty west of Opotiki. Photo / NZME

Heavy rain in the region has prompted warnings to stay safe on the roads today.

A MetService forecaster said a front over the Tasman Sea was forecast to move across New Zealand tomorrow, preceded by a strong and moist north to northeasterly flow.

This would then be followed by unsettled north-westerlies.

The front was expected to bring a period of heavy rain to western and northern parts of New Zealand, and some places would possibly experience severe gales for a time.

Heavy rain watches are in place for the Bay of Plenty region west of Ōpōtiki from 7am to 4pm, the Coromandel Peninsula from 5am to 1pm and the western ranges of Taupō from 7am to 2pm.

🌧⛈🌦

The unsettled weather lingers into Tuesday https://t.co/qHyE5zhh6X

Risk of thunderstorms in western areas https://t.co/BZWb7ZPiRd

Minimal risk of severe weather for the second half of the working week. ^Lewis pic.twitter.com/JKGeUKLjKs

— MetService (@MetService) July 25, 2021

MetService's weather warning said Bay of Plenty residents could expect another 40 to 60mm to accumulate in addition to rain which has already fallen. Peak intensities are expected to reach 15 to 25mm/h.

Waka Kotahi New Zealand Transport Agency urges motorists to take care and avoid unnecessary travel.

Waka Kotahi regional manager maintenance and operations Rob Campbell said motorists should expect the unexpected and remain alert.

"Avoid unnecessary travel and take care. Heavy rain may cause streams and rivers to rise rapidly and there is a chance we may need to close some roads."

"Drive to the conditions and watch out for surface flooding, slips and fallen trees or branches. Check your intended route for hazards or disruptions before setting out, using the Waka Kotahi interactive Journey Planner website and remain alert for unreported hazards."

Campbell asked motorists to be mindful of contractors who could be out clearing hazards off the road, and drive slowly through work sites.

"We want to see everyone get home safely. Stay safe and stay alert."

MetService advised people to keep up to date with the latest forecasts, especially if travelling.

MetService meteorologist Angus Hines says parts of the Coromandel Peninsula, including Whitianga, have already reported over 30mm of rain this morning, with more on the way.

"Heavy rain warnings remain in force throughout Coromandel and Bay of Plenty until this afternoon, which could cause surface flooding and slips in these regions. Drivers should also be wary of poor visibility during heavy rain."