The heavy rain warning continues to make driving treacherous around the Coromandel Peninsula, with the bad weather now set to continue until 9am tomorrow, 31 October.
“We’ve had surface flooding closing various parts of State Highway 25 today and there could be more to come,” says Waka Kotahi Journey Manager for the Waikato, Liam Ryan.
“While the network has held up pretty well given that we’ve had 200mm of rain in the last 24hrs on the Pinnacles, we’re not out of the woods yet with another 100 to 200mm of rain expected overnight.
“At various times today flooding has closed the state highway at Manaia, Hikuai and just north of Whitianga. Road users should keep an eye on the Waka Kotahi Journey Planner because the situation is changeable. journeys.nzta.govt.nz(external link)
SH2 is currently under stop/go traffic management around 2km east of Paeroa on the approach to Karangahake Gorge, due to a small slip. Expect delays. With contactors working to clear it this afternoon, a second stop/go may be required in the Gorge to provide access for trucks and trailers to a stockpile site where the slip material will be temporarily stored.
“In other areas around the Coromandel loop, SH25 is currently shut at Hikuai due to flooding however the rest of the state highway is back open, but this could change at any time. If you have to drive, drive with caution as surface water remains in many areas and there may be debris on the road,” says Mr Ryan.
The Kauaeranga river is still an area of concern, and could force a road closure at high tide tonight around 9pm.
“Please consider whether your trip is necessary and don’t go out if you don’t have to, especially once it’s dark. Those that need to travel should take it slowly and carefully, watch their following distances and expect the unexpected,” Mr Ryan says.
Flooding at Manaia, SH25 around midday today.
