Key Takeaways:
- Multiple roads are closed in Tauranga due to weather-related incidents, including Welcome Bay Rd and SH2
- Evacuations have been reported in some areas, with residents advised to avoid certain roads
- Power outages have been reported in parts of the city, including Welcome Bay, Bethlehem, and Mount Maunganui
- NZTA is warning of further flooding, slips, and debris on state highways
- Drivers are advised to drive to the conditions, adjust their speed, and follow temporary traffic management or speed restrictions
Introduction to Road Closures
A number of roads are closed in Tauranga due to weather-related incidents, with reports of slips, flooding, and power outages affecting various parts of the city. According to NZME, Welcome Bay Rd is closed from Waitao Rd to Te Puke Highway following reports of a slip, with all houses nearby having been evacuated. A Tauranga resident, who didn’t want to be named, confirmed that the road is closed and that residents have been evacuated. The road closure is causing disruptions to traffic, with diversions in place for northbound and southbound traffic.
Road Closure Details
The road closure on Welcome Bay Rd is not the only one in the area, with SH2 from Sandhurst to Domain also being reported as impassable. An NZTA alert has confirmed that the road is closed, with diversions in place. Northbound traffic is being diverted via Domain Rd, Papamoa Beach Rd, Maranui St, and Girven Rd, before rejoining SH2 at the Bayfair Roundabout. Southbound traffic is being diverted in reverse. Additionally, there are reports of a large slip on SH2 near Apata, and the road is closed between Tanners Point and Katikati due to multiple areas of flooding.
Power Outages and Flooding
In addition to the road closures, a number of power outages have been reported around the city. Power is out in parts of Welcome Bay, Bethlehem, Brookfield, Bellevue, and Mount Maunganui. The power outages are likely due to the heavy rain and strong winds that ripped through Tauranga overnight. Flooding is also a major concern, with SH2 between Paeroa and Waihi closed due to flooding. Further afield, SH2 between Matawai and Whatatutu remains closed following flooding and rockfall late last night.
Weather Update and Warnings
The red heavy rain warning issued for the region yesterday has now been lifted, according to MetService’s website. However, the weather is still expected to be unsettled, with heavy rain and possible downpours expected to clear this morning. Fine breaks are expected to develop, with strong easterlies changing to lighter westerlies in the morning. NZTA is warning of further flooding, slips, and debris on state highways, and is advising drivers to be alert to the possibility of further incidents. Drivers are being urged to drive to the conditions, adjust their speed, and follow temporary traffic management or speed restrictions.
Driving Precautions
It’s really important for people to drive to the conditions, and adjust their speed, turn their headlights on, and adjust their following distance when needed. If traveling on the network, please adhere to any temporary traffic management or speed restrictions that may be in place. The roads are expected to be hazardous, with the possibility of slips, debris, and flooding. Drivers should exercise caution and be aware of the conditions, especially on state highways. By taking necessary precautions and following the advice of NZTA and MetService, drivers can help to stay safe on the roads.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the weather-related incidents in Tauranga have caused significant disruptions to traffic and daily life. The road closures, power outages, and flooding are a major concern, and drivers are advised to exercise caution and follow the advice of NZTA and MetService. By staying informed and taking necessary precautions, residents and visitors can help to stay safe and navigate the hazardous conditions. It’s essential to prioritize safety and be aware of the conditions, especially on state highways, to avoid any further incidents.