Severe weather warnings issued across NZ as rain and wind threaten both islands

Heavy rain and strong winds are set to lash parts of New Zealand from late Monday, 28 July, through early Wednesday, prompting MetService to issue several severe weather warnings. A fast-moving front is sweeping east across the country, bringing dangerous conditions to both islands.

The top of the South Island, including Tasman, Nelson, Golden Bay, Marlborough, and the Westland Ranges, is set to receive the brunt of the downpour. Orange heavy rain warnings are in place for these regions, with expected rainfall totals of up to 180mm and hourly rates reaching 25mm.

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Taranaki Maunga is also under an orange warning. The rain may cause rivers to rise rapidly, surface flooding, slips, and hazardous driving conditions, MetService said.

Watches for the northern and central regions

Heavy rain watches have been issued for Northland, Auckland, Coromandel, Bay of Plenty, and the mountain areas of the Central North Island and Southern Alps. Rain in these areas may approach warning levels, especially in higher elevations.



Strong wind watches cover Northland, Auckland, Coromandel, eastern Waikato, Bay of Plenty, and inland areas from Taranaki to the Central Plateau, including Whanganui. Winds in exposed areas could near severe gale strength, posing risks to trees, power lines, and high-sided vehicles.

The Nelson Tasman region, still recovering from severe weather earlier this month and in late June, is especially vulnerable. Civil Defence told to 1 News that while the rainfall isn't as intense as the July 11 floods, people should remain cautious, particularly in already affected areas.

Road closures possible

As reported by RNZ, the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) has warned that heavy rain could cause flooding, slips, and rockfalls, leading to possible road closures. Motorists are advised to follow road signs and avoid flooded routes, as water levels may be higher and more dangerous than they appear.

Roads that may be impacted include:

• State Highway 60 – Richmond to Collingwood
  
  
• State Highway 6 – Nelson to Kawatiri Junction and Nelson to Havelock
  
  
• State Highway 63 – Renwick to Kawatiri Junction