MetService New Zealand has upgraded Northland's Orange Heavy Rain Warning to a Red Heavy Rain Warning with the potential for very heavy rain and strong winds.

Streams and rivers may rise rapidly and become dangerous. Surface flooding, slips and flood water are likely to close roads and disrupt travel.

• Do not enter floodwaters and avoid travel
• Act quickly to self-evacuate if you see rising water
• Be ready for power and communications outages
• If at any time you feel you, your whānau, or your property are at immediate risk, please call emergency services on 111

Report storm related issues to Council on 0800 932 463 and get latest updates at www.wdc.govt.nz

A State of Emergency has been declared for Whangarei District as a precaution given the level of damage already sustained and the risk of further severe weather.

“This is a serious weather event, and our priority is the safety of our communities,” says Whangarei District Council Mayor Ken Couper.

“We know how unsettling these conditions are, especially for those who are already dealing with damage, but acting early can help prevent further harm. Please take the warnings seriously, look after each other, and only travel if it is absolutely necessary. Council Civil Defence and emergency services are fully mobilised and will continue to provide updates as the situation develops.”

Whangārei residents are urged to be prepared for the weather and if it is safe to do so:

- Clear drains and gutters 

- Secure loose outdoor items 

- Move valuables and vehicles away from flood-prone areas 

- Relocate stock from low-lying land and bring pets indoors 

- Have essential supplies ready in case of power outages or road closures 

- Have a grab bag and evacuation plan ready

Full weather forecast:

Expect another 90 to 120 mm of rain on top of what has already accumulated, or possibly more in some localised areas, especially in the north and east. Peak rates 25 to 40 mm/h in localised downpours this afternoon. 

For the latest update on the warnings head to: https://www.metservice.com/warnings/home#upper- 

Power outages: 

Northpower: https://northpower.nz/outages/ 

Faults line: 0800 104 040 

State highways: https://www.journeys.nzta.govt.nz/journey-planner 

We’ll continue to monitor conditions closely and share updates as the situation develops. 

Stay safe everyone.

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