The sunny skies of Christmas Day have been darkened for Boxing Day as the east coast of Te Ika-a-Māui comes under an orange heavy rain warning.
MetService has issued Orange Heavy Rain Warnings for Te Tairāwhiti and northern parts of Te Matau-a-Māui , with significant rainfall expected over the next 24 to 28 hours.
Tairāwhiti/Gisborne
Period: 6am Thursday, 26 December – 6am Friday, 27 December (24 hours)
Forecast:
Heavy rain from the east to northeast will set in this morning, shifting to a southerly direction later in the day. Rainfall totals are forecast to reach 100 to 120mm, with higher amounts possible in isolated areas. Peak rainfall rates of 15 to 25mm per hour are expected from this afternoon, with thunderstorms possible.
MetService notes: There is minimal likelihood of upgrading this to a Red Warning.
Northern Hawke’s Bay (including areas north of Ahuriri/Napier)
Period: 9am Thursday, 26 December – 1pm Friday, 27 December (28 hours)
Forecast:
Rainfall totals are predicted to reach 110 to 130mm, particularly in the ranges. Peak rates of 10 to 20mm per hour are expected, with heavy rain likely to continue in the Wairoa District into Saturday.
MetService notes: There is minimal likelihood of upgrading this to a Red Warning.
A 12-hour strong wind watch will also be in force from 1pm Friday December 27.
MetService says southwest winds could reach severe gale force in exposed areas. There is a moderate chance this watch could be upgraded to a full warning.
Today’s weather warning highlights the potential for rapidly rising streams and rivers, surface flooding, slips, and hazardous driving conditions.
The public is advised to clear gutters and drains ahead of the storm to reduce the risk of flooding. Those in low-lying areas should consider staying vigilant, while drivers are urged to proceed with caution.
In addition to the heavy rain, a Strong Wind Watch has been issued for the coastal areas of Hawke’s Bay and Gisborne/Tairawhiti. The wind watch, effective from 1:00 pm Friday to 1:00 am Saturday,
As the festive season continues, authorities will provide regular updates on the weather. Stay tuned to local news outlets for the latest information and be sure to take precautions to ensure safety during these adverse conditions.
