Reports of flooding are now coming in to WeatherWatch.co.nz as a band of sub-tropical rain drenches the North Island.

Reader “Laura” tells us flooding has now closed State Highway 1 west of the Bay of Islands.  “SH1 at base of Mangamukas is closed at the bridge north of Okaihau. Hubby is stranded there. No one is getting through.
It’s been pouring here since early last night. Huge amount of surface water and flooding in paddocks”.

Further south and Doug Bowker says the flooding is now affecting roads and farms around South Hokianga.  “Since the rains commenced last night we have had 140mm as of a few minutes ago. The Waimamaku River (just north of Waipoua Forest) is in flood and some farms are flooded but the road up the Wekaweka is marginal but usable”.

Back to the north and WeatherWatch.co.nz reader “Glenda” says she has heard that Kaeo and Tapia schools are both closed due to flooding. “Parents were advised to pick up kids about 9:15am. Still raining, have had just on 100mm in Kerikeri since it started”.

Meanwhile Marise Carey told us via our Facebook page “Flooding starting on Front Miranda Road Waitakaruru/ Kaiaua… daughter had to leave work early and coming up high tide”.

Heavy rain remains over the North Island with heavy rain expected to last the rest of the day, especially for eastern areas says WeatherWatch.co.nz..  More flooding, along with slips, are expected this afternoon and evening and motorists are advised to drive with care.

Yesterday WeatherWatch.co.nz advised farmers to move stock to higher ground if in flood prone areas and this afternoon that message is repeated with many rivers rising and heavy rain still falling.

– WeatherWatch.co.nz

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