WeatherWatch.co.nz is raising the concern of slips in Auckland following another period of heavy rain.

Rain warnings are in place for the city and following such a dry start to 2010 the rain could see land movements.  “Auckland has had a very dry summer and autumn and there are still some large cracks in the soil.  Rain will fill those cracks and may lead to saturation of the soil underground which can cause slips” says head weather analyst Philip Duncan.

Mr Duncan says clifftop properties along the eastern coastlines are often the most vulnerable but also suburbs on the North Shore. 

Heavy winter rains in recent years have caused problems with waterfront properties in Auckland’s Eastern Bays.  Last July heavy rain caused evacuations to some homes in Bucklands Beach, including after the partial collapse of former Manukau mayor Sir Barry Curtis’ home.

The heavy band of rain today has currently stalled over Auckland city, with the heaviest rain falling south of about the CBD.

WeatherWatch.co.nz predicts the stalled front is likely to remain in place until after midnight.

Front page image / Mandeno Moments