Key Takeaways:
- Parts of Northland are underwater due to torrential rain, with some areas experiencing the worst flooding in 60 years.
- A severe thunderstorm warning for Northland has been lifted, but further heavy rain is expected across eastern Northland.
- Flooding has been reported in areas such as akura, Whangaruru, Punaruku, and Helena Bay, with residents advised not to travel in or out of these areas.
- Homes across the region are without power due to a lightning strike, and roads have been closed due to flooding and damage.
- A heavy rain warning is in place for Eastern and Central Northland until noon, with some areas recording over 100mm of rain in the past six hours.
Introduction to the Flooding
The Northland region is experiencing severe flooding due to a night of torrential rain, with some areas underwater and residents describing the situation as the worst they have seen in 60 years. A severe thunderstorm warning was issued earlier in the morning for the Far North and Whangārei, but it has since been lifted. However, MetService has warned that further heavy rain is expected across eastern Northland, and residents are advised to exercise caution.
Flooding and Damage
Flooding has already been reported in parts of the region, with photos showing streets and backyards under water in areas such as akura. Whangārei Heads resident Kathy Wallace described the floodwaters covering her driveway as worse than when Cyclone Gabrielle hit. The Whangaruru North Residents and Ratepayers Association has opened Tūparehuia Marae for people needing shelter, and residents in Helena Bay have reported torrential rain and flooding, with some cars having water fill the footwells. A farmer in Helena Bay said it was the worst flooding he had seen in 60 years, and his cattle had got out due to the fences being down.
Road Closures and Power Outages
The Whangārei District Council has confirmed that areas such as Ngunguru, Helena Bay, akura, Punaruku, and Whangaruru have been cut off by flooding, and residents are advised not to attempt to travel in or out of these areas until the rain and flooding clear. The Ngaiotonga Bridge has washed out, and the Far North District Council has been notified. Motorist Amy Tipene described the portion of road at Scows Landing on Ngunguru Rd as "dangerous" due to rising floodwaters. Additionally, homes across the region are without power due to a lightning strike, with Northpower reporting that 225 homes in Whangaruru and 525 customers in akura, Punaruku, and Whangaruru are affected.
Weather Forecast
A heavy rain warning is in place for Eastern and Central Northland until noon, with some areas recording over 100mm of rain in the past six hours. MetService meteorologist Devlin Lynden said that the heavy rain will move eastward away from the coastal areas from about midday, and the intensity of the rain will significantly decrease by the afternoon. Northland Regional Council’s rainfall data showed that Dugmores Rock in Ngunguru received 171.5mm of rain in the last 24 hours, the highest recording of NRC’s rainfall monitoring locations.
Conclusion
The flooding in Northland is a serious situation, with many areas affected and residents advised to exercise caution. The heavy rain warning is in place until noon, and residents are advised to stay indoors and avoid traveling unless necessary. The situation is being closely monitored by authorities, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available. In the meantime, residents are advised to prioritize their safety and the safety of their loved ones, and to follow the instructions of local authorities.
