Key Takeaways
- An orange heavy rain warning has been issued for Hawke’s Bay, with potential for surface flooding, slips, and difficult driving conditions
- The Wairoa River bar is being monitored and a new opening is being attempted to alleviate flood risk
- Residents are advised to take precautions, including clearing drains and gutters, moving valuables and vehicles away from flood-prone areas, and having essentials ready in case of power outages or road closures
- High winds and heavy swells are forecast for the area, with storm-spectators, rock-fishers, and surfers urged to exercise caution
- Emergency services and local councils are monitoring the situation and coordinating their response
Introduction to the Weather Warning
An orange heavy rain warning has been issued for Hawke’s Bay, with the region bracing for a deluge of rain and potential flooding. The warning, issued by MetService, states that streams and rivers may rise rapidly, and surface flooding, slips, and difficult driving conditions are possible. The warning comes after a serious flood in June 2024, which drew criticism about the management of the Wairoa River bar. As a precaution, the Hawke’s Bay Regional Council has attempted to create a new opening in the Wairoa River bar, which would provide a more direct route for the water to flow out to sea.
The Wairoa River Bar Opening Attempt
The attempt to create a new opening in the Wairoa River bar began on Wednesday morning, with contractors working to cut a channel through the bar. However, the effort was hindered by sea swells, which were pushing materials back and making it difficult to create a stable opening. The council confirmed that the attempt would be reassessed on Thursday morning, and that the purpose of the opening was to provide a precautionary measure ahead of the heavy rain. The new opening would essentially make a more direct route for the water in the river to flow out to sea, which would help to alleviate flood risk in the area.
Precautions and Preparations
Residents in the area are advised to take precautions to prepare for the potential flooding. The Hawke’s Bay Regional Council has recommended that people clear drains and gutters, move valuables and vehicles away from flood-prone areas, relocate stock from low-lying land, bring pets indoors, and have essentials ready in case of power outages or road closures. The council has also set up cameras on their website, where people can watch the progress of the opening attempt. Additionally, the council has positioned mobile pumps on standby in Haumoana, in case they are needed.
Emergency Response and Coordination
The Hawke’s Bay Civil Defence has stated that teams across the region are monitoring the situation and coordinating their preparedness. The organization has recommended that people have a grab bag and evacuation plan ready as a precaution, and that they avoid unnecessary travel and take extra care when driving. The Surf Life Saving New Zealand (SLSNZ) has also issued a warning, urging people to take care around coastlines and to avoid putting themselves or others at risk. The organization has also stated that search and rescue squads are standing by for a rapid response if required.
Weather Forecast and Conditions
The weather forecast for the area is looking ominous, with high winds and heavy swells expected on Wednesday night and Thursday. The eastern coastlines across the North Island are already experiencing heavy swells, which may not ease until next week. Storm-spectators, rock-fishers, and surfers are being urged to exercise caution and not to overestimate their abilities or underestimate their environment. The Hastings District Council has announced reserve closures until Thursday morning, due to the heavy rainfall, and the public is advised to stay away from flooded areas and to follow the instructions of emergency services.
Conclusion and Final Preparations
In conclusion, the orange heavy rain warning issued for Hawke’s Bay is a serious situation that requires attention and preparation from residents and visitors alike. The attempt to create a new opening in the Wairoa River bar is a precautionary measure to alleviate flood risk, and residents are advised to take precautions to prepare for the potential flooding. The emergency services and local councils are monitoring the situation and coordinating their response, and the public is urged to stay safe and follow the instructions of authorities. As the situation continues to unfold, it is essential that everyone remains vigilant and takes necessary precautions to ensure their safety and the safety of those around them.
