Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency is advising motorists to be prepared for heavy rain to cause surface flooding and slips on the state highway network through the lower North Island this evening.
Heavy rain, combined with high tides, caused severe flooding in the Plimmerton area yesterday resulting in the closure of State Highway 1, as well as the detour route along Paekakariki Hill Road and Grays Road.
Regional Transport Systems Manager Mark Owen says Waka Kotahi has been actively monitoring the situation since yesterday’s event.
“MetService is forecasting that further heavy rain is on its way to the lower North Island this evening, which could impact our state highway network. There is again a risk of water accumulation around the Plimmerton roundabout and on State Highway 2 around Petone.
“Waka Kotahi maintenance crews will be out on the network on storm patrol monitoring and will react as the situation unfolds.
“While we hope the impact won’t be as significant as yesterday, we are advising motorists to be prepared for bad weather and potential road closures. People should plan ahead by checking the forecast before heading out, and keeping an eye on our website and social media for updates.
“Motorists who do need to travel in bad weather should drive to the conditions – watch your speeds, keep a safe following distance and stay alert.”
Waka Kotahi will provide updates as the situation unfolds on the Waka Kotahi Wellington Facebook and Twitter accounts.
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