Heavy Rain and Strong Winds Expected in Tasman, West Coast, and Northland

Residents across Tasman, West Coast, and Northland are bracing for another round of heavy rainfall and strong winds, according to the latest forecast from New Zealand’s Meteorological Service. This comes just a month after the Nelson-Tasman region was hit by two major floods, leaving communities still reeling from the aftermath.

With the ground still saturated from previous storms, the risk of further flooding and landslides is high. Meteorologist Devlin Lynden warned that the most significant weather event is expected to hit the West Coast on Tuesday, with heavy rain continuing into the Tasman area and Northland also facing a deluge.

“The ground is still very wet there,” Lynden said. “People are fearing what’s to come, and it’s important to communicate the risks clearly, especially in areas like Tasman, which has been hit particularly hard recently.”

Tasman Mayor Tim King echoed these concerns, noting that while the rainfall forecast may not reach the levels seen in previous events, the combination of heavy rain and gale-force north-easterly winds could still cause significant damage, particularly to infrastructure and power lines.

“There’s been a lot of preparation,” King said. “We’ve been working on roads and rivers to limit damage. A lot of progress has been made, but there’s still a lot to do.”

Volunteer efforts have been instrumental in the recovery process, with organizations like the Student Volunteer Army and Taskforce Kiwi playing a crucial role in clearing roads and assisting affected residents. However, a handful of homes in the Motueka Valley remain cut off, relying on helicopter supply drops for essential goods.

Meanwhile, icy conditions across the country have led to multiple crashes and the suspension of train services in Wellington. Lynden noted that Auckland recorded its lowest temperature of the year on Friday, with several other regions also experiencing record lows.

Driving conditions in the South Island are expected to be hazardous due to black ice, particularly on bridges and in shaded areas. Authorities have urged drivers to exercise caution and avoid unnecessary travel.

As the region continues its recovery, the focus remains on preparing for the worst-case scenario. With the weather forecast showing little reprieve in the near future, communities are being urged to stay informed and take necessary precautions.

“We’re all in this together,” King said. “It’s a tough time, but we’re working hard to get through it.”