Yahoo Xtra News Headline; says:
As a Tasman Sea storm swept across Northland, weather forecasters said it could be extremely hazardous to be on the roads or out in boats. They said the storm had the potential to be dangerous and very damaging. Police today warned Northlanders to stay inside unless their journey was essential as heavy rain and high winds bore down on the region.
Soon after first light today at least one road in Northland was under about 60cm of water but was still negotiable with care. Whareora Road on the way to the Whangarei heads was badly flooded and contractors were trying to clear the water. The main road through Kaeo was also under threat from floodwaters as the MetService predicted up to 250mm of rain in Northland in the next 24 hours.
Auckland, the Coromandel Peninsula and the Hauraki Plains were expected to get up to 150mm of rain. Winds gusting to 130kmh in Northland and Auckland had the potential to be damaging. "These conditions are likely to lead to surface flooding, slips and cause streams and rivers to rise rapidly, especially in parts of Northland,"
The winds could cause damage to power lines, trees, and lift roofs while driving conditions were likely to be extremely hazardous, particularly for motorcycles and high-sided vehicles, said the MetService. Coastal conditions would be extremely dangerous for small boats while poorly secured boats could break their moorings.
"People in these areas, especially eastern parts of Northland, are advised to take extreme care as this has the potential to be a major weather event”.
Trucks drivers had trouble crossing Auckland Harbour Bridge as wind gusts of 110kmh were recorded. Anyone venturing out on the roads should take extreme care.
