Heavy rain is expected to cause problems on Taranaki roads today, with warnings predicting slips and flooding on the back of 24 hours of deluges.
File photo. Photo: 123rf
The Regional Council said river levels are being monitored cautiously but they are believed to have peaked early this morning, so it is unlikely they will reach critical flood levels.
However further heavy rain expected for the region today means surface flooding and slips are expected.
By mid-morning Waka Kotahi said State Highway 45 was closed between Opunake and Okato due to surface flooding.
SH45 RAHOTU, TARANAKI - SURFACE FLOODING - 9:40AM
— Waka Kotahi NZTA Central North Island (@WakaKotahiCNI) February 5, 2022
The road is now CLOSED between Opunake and Okato. Please avoid the area and consider delaying your journey as there is no suitable detour available. ^AP pic.twitter.com/RRH37EWB4M
Taranaki Civil Defence said people should not drive or walk through floodwaters, because parts of the road could be washed away or contain debris.
It said all floodwater should be treated as contaminated and unsafe.
