Joint media release from Waikato Civil Defence and Waikato Regional Council 

Waikato Civil Defence Emergency Management Group and the Waikato Regional Council flood management team are urging Waikato people to be cautious for the next few days with heavy rain forecast from today through to Wednesday. Strong winds are also possible during this period.

The heaviest rainfall is currently expected on the Coromandel Peninsula, where between 150 and 200 mm of rain is expected from midday today till midnight Wednesday, according to the Metservice. As much as 20-25 mm per hour is possible.

Heavy rain can lead to slips, roads becoming greasy, surface flooding and rising waterways.

The Waikato CDEM Group, working alongside the Waikato Regional Council flood management team, is monitoring the situation.

Group controller Lee Hazlewood is urging people to take the forecast into account with their travel plans and other activities.

“Take care on the roads. People should also stay up to date with weather and road closure information.”

Civil defence also suggested people check drains and gutters and clear away any autumn fall of leaves.

People near watercourses should be aware of the potential for rising river levels and surface flooding. The latest information on rainfall and river levels is available on the Waikato Regional Council website.

Report any flooding or slips. Dial 1-1-1 if life or property is in danger.

For the latest data visit:

http://waikatoregion.govt.nz/rainfall

http://waikatoregion.govt.nz/riverlevels

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