Heavy rain expected in eastern Bay

Tuesday, 11 October 2011 3:30 p.m.

Bay of Plenty Regional Council warns that predicted rainfall in the region could result in localised flooding, and farmers should move stock to high ground.

Bay of Plenty Regional Council Duty Flood Manager Mark James said a lot of rain was expected to fall, particularly in the Waioeka and Otara catchments in the eastern Bay of Plenty.

"The MetService has issued a severe weather warning for areas of the North Island, including the Bay of Plenty," Mr James said.

"The warning predicted 200-250mm in the eastern Bay of Plenty ranges between 9am Tuesday and midnight Wednesday, with up to 150mm on the eastern Bay of Plenty coast.

"We recommend that all farmers move stock to high ground and people should avoid unnecessary travel," he said.

The MetService advises that a moist northerly airstream is covering New Zealand with a frontal band expected to bring heavy rain to parts of eastern Bay of Plenty and northern Gisborne.

Mr James said at this stage there have only been minor responses in our major rivers.

"We will continue to monitor the situation in all rivers, particularly the Waioeka, Otara and Waimana Rivers as this is where most rain is predicted to fall.

"It is possible that water levels will rise quickly, so people should stay away from waterways to avoid being caught out," Mr James said.

"There is only a minor risk of potential flooding but the situation will be monitored and updates provided if the situation changes."