Thunderstom warning for Taupō

Weather warnings in place at 11.30am on February 14. Image: MetService

A severe thunderstorm warning has been issued for Taupō.

The Metservice has issued the warning for Coromandel Peninsula, Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Rotorua, Taupō, and Gisborne, up until 10pm Saturday night.

“An unstable and moist atmosphere brings a risk of thunderstorms to parts of the North Island today. For eastern parts of Coromandel Peninsula and Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Taupō, and northern Gisborne/Tairawhiti, there is also a moderate risk of localised downpours with rainfall rates of 25 to 40 mm/h until late evening. Note, Severe Weather Warnings and Watches for widespread heavy rain are also in force for some of these regions.

“Rainfall of this intensity can cause surface and/or flash flooding, especially about low-lying areas such as streams, rivers or narrow valleys, and may also lead to slips.

“Driving conditions will also be hazardous with surface flooding and poor visibility in heavy rain.

The Taupō District council is warning that a a slip is blocking both lanes of Tirohanga Rd near the SH1 end at Atiamuri. Motorists are asked to avoid the area.

On its Facebppk page the council says Waipapa Road from Scott Road (just north of Mangakino) has been badly damaged by slips and is closed until further notice. People should use SH32 to Tokoroa if they are heading north from Whakamaru or Mangakino.

“All other roads in the district are open and clear as far as we know, apart from some temporary road closures in Kinloch for the Kinloch Triathlon Festival.

“If you do come aross debris or slips on the road, please advise our customer service team on 07 376 0899 or lodge a report using the Antenno app on your phone.”

For slips or damage to highways, call NZTA on 0800 4 HIGHWAYS.