Northern North Island Braces for Heavy Rain and Strong Winds
Residents in the upper North Island are being urged to prepare for heavy rain and gale-force winds as a subtropical low-pressure system moves across the region.
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MetService meteorologist Clare O’Connor has issued several warnings for the area. Northland faces an orange heavy rain warning and a severe thunderstorm watch starting this afternoon, with a strong wind watch set to follow later tonight.
Rainfall between 90 and 120 millimeters is expected in Northland from 3 p.m. today through 10 a.m. tomorrow, with localised thunderstorms posing a significant risk. Downpours could produce up to 60 millimeters of rain per hour, potentially leading to surface or flash flooding, slips, and hazardous driving conditions.
“Even if you don’t see lightning or hear thunder, these intense downpours can cause major flooding, especially in low-lying areas,” O’Connor explained. “Residents should ensure their drains and gutters are cleared and secure outdoor items to prevent them from being blown away by winds, which could reach gusts of up to 100 kilometers per hour.”
The risk of thunderstorms will begin easing tomorrow morning in Northland but may continue sporadically in southern and western parts of the region throughout the afternoon.
Auckland, Coromandel, and Tairawhiti Next in Line
The heavy rain will expand into Auckland and Coromandel Peninsula early Tuesday morning. An orange rain warning is in effect for the Coromandel from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday, while a rain watch is in place for Auckland and Great Barrier Island from 4 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday.
The Tairawhiti region, north of Tolaga Bay, will likely see heavy rain from 3 p.m. Tuesday to 9 a.m. Wednesday, with a chance the current rain watch will be upgraded to a warning.
Easterly winds could strengthen to near severe gale levels in exposed areas, affecting Northland from 1 a.m. to 8 a.m. Tuesday, and Auckland, Great Barrier Island, and the Coromandel from 4 a.m. to noon Tuesday.
Rain Intensity Explained
MetService categorises rain as follows:
- Heavy Rain: 6-25mm per hour
- Downpour: 25-40mm per hour
- Torrential: Over 40mm per hour
Northland’s Preparedness
Northland Civil Defence spokesman Zach Woods highlighted some favorable conditions that could mitigate flooding risks, such as low tides and decreased river levels. “A lot of the heavy rain is expected to coincide with low tide, which reduces the likelihood of flooding. Our rivers are also running low, which provides additional relief,” Woods said.
However, Woods reminded residents to stay alert and monitor forecasts closely. Roads could become dangerous due to surface flooding and sudden slips.
For rural communities and tank-water users, the rainfall may be a welcome relief after a prolonged dry spell. “Let’s hope we don’t get too much of a good thing,” Woods added.
Changes to Fire Restrictions
In response to the changing weather, Fire and Emergency Northland has eased fire restrictions, shifting from a total fire ban to a restricted fire season. Previously suspended fire permits have been reinstated as of Monday morning.
Final Advice
Authorities urge residents to take the following precautions:
- Clear drains and gutters to prevent blockages.
- Secure loose outdoor items to avoid wind damage.
- Stay updated on weather warnings through MetService channels.
- Drive cautiously as conditions may deteriorate rapidly.
Regional council hydrologists and emergency services will continue to monitor the situation overnight to ensure communities stay informed and safe.