Heavy rain watch issued for Northland, Auckland

Parts of Northland and Northern Auckland are facing heavy rain and possible localised downpours from Wednesday morning, with forecasters warning conditions could reach warning criteria.

Metservice issued the Heavy Rain Watch for northern and eastern parts of Northland, and Auckland north of Orewa including Great Barrier Island.

The forecast is for a period of heavy rain with localised downpours possible; where amounts may approach warning criteria. There is a moderate chance of upgrading to a Warning, Metservice said.

The watch is in place from 11am Wednesday August 12 until 1am Thursday, August 13.

MetService meteorologist Paris Marshall said a warm front was approaching, followed by a cold front, bringing precipitation from the Tasman Sea and unsettled conditions.

“Which brings rise to potential thunderstorms and therefore heavy rain,” Marshall said.

Auckland Emergency Management is urging residents to use the time before the weather system arrives to prepare for potential impacts.

“We still have some time before this weather system arrives. Even if impacts are localised, it’s important to be prepared.

It advised people to clear drains and gutters before the rain arrives, allow extra time when travelling, drive to the conditions and watch for flooding and poor visibility. People were also urged not to drive through floodwater and to be cautious around streams and rivers, which could rise rapidly.