Heavy rain yesterday started to cause flooding problems in Northland and more heavy rain is on the way.

WeatherWatch.co.nz has received reports of flood waters in Kaeo and problems near Kerikeri and while not serious at this stage it appears further heavy rain could quickly escalate flooding concerns.

MetService has today issued a heavy rain warning for Northland saying that northern and eastern parts of Northland north of Whangarei will see more steady rain today, with another 20 to 40mm likely.

“However heavy falls are expected from tonight through mid-afternoon Wednesday, with 60 to 80mm possible in the 12 hours from 3am to 3pm Wednesday, when intensities could reach 20mm per hour for a time” says MetService.

WeatherWatch.co.nz says there’s also a risk of thunderstorms in the area tonight or tomorrow morning.

MetService has also issued rain warnings for the Rotorua and Bay of Plenty regions.  “Eastern Bay of Plenty ranges Further heavy falls are forecast through to late Wednesday evening. In the 36 hours from 9am Tuesday to 9pm Wednesday, expect another 150mm of rain in places. The heaviest falls are expected Wednesday afternoon and early evening when rates could reach 25mm per hour for a time” says the crown forecaster.