The NZ Transport Agency advises motorists in the Bay of Plenty and Waikato to stay safe ahead of strong winds and heavy rain forecast for the upper North Island later today.
A deep low is forecast to approach New Zealand from the northwest on Monday and move southeast across the upper North Island on Tuesday. High winds of up to 120 km/h in exposed areas are expected for the Coromandel Peninsula, the Bay of Plenty west of Matata, and the Waikato, particularly around the Kaimai Ranges.
Director Regional Relationships Ross I’Anson says high-sided vehicles and motorcycles should take particular care.
“The Coromandel Peninsula is also forecast to receive heavy rain between 8pm tonight and 11pm Tuesday, which may cause streams and rivers to rise rapidly. Surface flooding and slips are also possible and driving conditions may be hazardous.”
While rain is expected to ease for a while on Tuesday morning and afternoon, the wet weather is expected to stick around until late Tuesday night and Mr I’Anson urged road users to stay alert and delay unnecessary travel where possible.
“The duration of the heavy rain, combined with high winds and tides, means drivers will need to take care. Drive to the conditions and watch out for surface flooding, slips and fallen trees or branches.
“Check your intended route for hazards or disruptions before setting out, using the Transport Agency’s Journey Planner(external link).
“Please also be mindful of our contractors who could be out clearing hazards off the road, and drive slowly through work sites. We want to see everyone get home safely.”
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