HomeEnvironmental News (Sustainability in Boating)Extreme Weather EventsSevere Weather Hits North Island: Heavy Rain and Gales Expected

Severe Weather Hits North Island: Heavy Rain and Gales Expected

The northern parts of New Zealand’s North Island are bracing for a day of severe weather as a low-pressure system moves southward, bringing heavy rain and easterly gales. The MetService has issued a mix of Heavy Rain Warnings, Watches, and Strong Wind Watches for the region.

Areas Affected

Northland

A Heavy Rain Warning is in place from 8am to 2pm today. The region can expect an additional 40–70mm of rain, with peak intensities of 20–30mm/h and potential thunderstorms south of Bay of Islands. The MetService warns of rapidly rising streams and rivers, surface flooding, and slips.

A Strong Wind Watch is also active until 11am, with easterly winds potentially reaching severe gale in exposed areas.


Coromandel Peninsula

Rainfall between 80–110mm is forecast from 8am Tuesday to 1am Wednesday, with peak intensities of 15–25mm/h. A Strong Wind Watch is also in effect until 3pm Tuesday.


Gisborne/Tairāwhiti

The area will experience 80–100mm of rain between 4pm Tuesday and 8am Wednesday, with the heaviest downpours expected this evening and early Wednesday morning.

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Auckland and Great Barrier Island

Periods of heavy rain are forecast from 8am to 5pm Tuesday, with localized downpours and thunderstorms possible in northern and eastern parts. Easterly winds in exposed areas may approach severe gale.


Safety First

Residents in affected areas are urged to:

  • Prepare by clearing drains and gutters.
  • Avoid low-lying areas prone to flooding.
  • Drive cautiously on wet and slippery roads.

The MetService reminds the public to stay informed as conditions may change throughout the day. Updates are expected by 9pm tonight.

Stay safe, New Zealand!

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1 COMMENT

  1. I am sitting in a Cafe at Whangamata, should be on the water but the weather is too bad. Its lunchtime on Tuesday and the rain is very hard and the gusts are strong!

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Chris Woodhams
Chris Woodhams
Adventurer. Explorer. Sailor. Web Editors of Boating NZ

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