Northland weather alert: Heavy rain and wind watch from tonight

Outages could be on the cards for Northland as more severe weather looms. Photo / Northpower

Northland will be under a heavy rain and strong wind watch from this evening as wet weather approaches.

MetService has placed a heavy rain watch on the region from 8pm today until 8pm tomorrow, and a strong wind watch from 5pm today until 10am tomorrow.

Meteorologist Lewis Ferris said wet weather had already turned up at Cape Rēinga, which would set the trend for the rest of the evening and into tomorrow.

“The story is that heavy rain and strong northeasterly winds are on the way, setting in tonight and then Tuesday looks to be pretty wet and windy for a good portion of the day.”

The weather looked as though it would ease by tomorrow evening, he said.

Those on the east coast were likely to be most impacted because of exposure to the wind and what looked to be the largest accumulations of rain.

Ferris said intense rainfall was possible for those areas, with 25-40mm of rain falling in an hour.

As the weather system moved across the region, people would likely experience warmer temperatures tonight.

The rest of the week had the potential to be wet as well.

“While there’s no sort of widespread consistent weather system moving in, there’s still the potential for bits and pieces.”

“[But] I wouldn’t call it a washout.”

Top Energy in a Facebook update stated people should prepare for power outages by having a rechargeable torch and power bank handy, storing drinking water, keeping barbecue gas cylinders and petrol tanks full, and securing outside equipment.

Meanwhile, Civil Defence Northland suggested on Facebook that people keep up to date with the latest forecasts and prepare for changing conditions.

“Along with your usual wet weather precautions, please take extra care on the roads – especially during the hours of darkness or when travelling through flood-prone areas.

“With strong winds forecast we could see some power outages, so make sure you’re prepared with essentials like torches, batteries and a way to stay informed if the power goes out.”

Issues with fallen trees, flooding or blocked drains should be reported to the local council, it said.

Brodie Stone covers crime and emergency for the Northern Advocate. She has spent most of her life in Whangārei and is passionate about delving into issues that matter to Northlanders and beyond.