The top of the South Island is in the firing line yet again as an active trough moves onto New Zealand, bringing widespread heavy rain and strong winds to both islands.
MetService has issued several warnings and watches across the country for late Monday into Tuesday.
Orange heavy rain warnings were in place for Taranaki Maunga, Tasman —west and east of Motueka, Nelson, Gloden Bay, Marlborough, and the Westland Ranges. Rainfall totals in these areas could reach up to 180mm, with hourly rates as high as 25mm.
MetService said the rain could cause rivers to rise quickly, along with surface flooding, slips, and dangerous driving conditions.
The Nelson Tasman region is still recovering from devastating twin weather events in late June and early this month.
Heavy rain watches were also issued for Northland, Auckland, Coromandel, Bay of Plenty, the Central North Island mountains, and the Southern Alps east of the Divide.
These areas may see rainfall that approaches warning levels, especially in higher terrain.
Strong wind watches are in place for Northland, Auckland, Coromandel, eastern Waikato, Bay of Plenty, and inland areas from Taranaki to the Central Plateau, including Whanganui.
Winds may approach severe gale force in exposed places, with the potential to bring down trees and powerlines and make driving hazardous, particularly for high-sided vehicles.
MetService is advising people to clear drains and gutters, secure outdoor items, avoid flood-prone areas, and take extra care on the roads.
Nelson Tasman Civil Defence said the rainfall totals and intensities were not as high as the July 11 floods.
“Thankfully we have had drier weather which means the water tables aren’t as high and the river levels are lower.
“It is however still a fair amount of rainfall, so care is needed in exposed areas, and those previously affected by the flooding.”
Potential road closures
With state highways at the top of the South Island having already suffered extensive heavy rain and weather damage over the past month, NZTA has warned motorists to be aware that roads may close at short notice.
The heavy rainfall brings the possibility for flooding, slips and rockfalls and drivers are urged to obey road closures.
The weather may affect:
- State Highway 60 – Richmond to Collingwood
- State Highway 6 – Nelson to Kawatiri Junction
- State Highway 6 – Nelson to Havelock
- State Highway 63 – Renwick to Kawatiri Junction
NZTA warned that floodwaters can hide hidden dangers and water flows may be stronger than they appear.
“Local state highways will be monitored, and contractors are on call to respond to incidents as they arise.”
