New Zealand’s upper North Island is currently experiencing intense and prolonged wet weather, with authorities issuing multiple warnings and emergency measures as heavy rain, flooding and strong winds impact communities from Northland through Auckland to the Coromandel Peninsula.
The worst of the system is associated with a slow-moving low-pressure system of tropical origin pushing down from the north, bringing persistent rain and gales that have already caused significant disruption.
Weather Warnings and Forecasts
• Red Heavy Rain Warning: Heavy rain warnings for Northland and the Coromandel Peninsula have been upgraded to red — the highest alert — as rainfall totals build on already saturated ground.
• Extended Severe Weather Alerts: Orange warnings and heavy rain watches remain in place for the Coromandel, Bay of Plenty, Rotorua and Gisborne, with heavy rain likely to spread further south over the coming days.
• Persistent Rainfall Expected: MetService forecasts indicate bands of rain that could deliver 90–150 mm or more of rain in places, with locally higher totals possible where moisture feeds into ranges.
• Strong Winds: Winds ahead of the rain bands are also a concern — with strong easterly gusts expected to precede the heaviest rain.
Local Impacts So Far
• Flooding and Isolation: Several Northland communities have already been cut off as floodwaters swallow roads and bridges, with slips and surface flooding disrupting travel and access.
• Power Disruptions: Hundreds of homes in Northland, Auckland and Coromandel regions have been left without power as heavy rain and wind take their toll on infrastructure.
• State of Emergency: Whangārei District has declared a precautionary state of emergency in anticipation of further severe weather and potential escalation of hazards.
• Road Closures: Major routes, including parts of the Coromandel highway, have been affected by flooding and surface damage, prompting authorities to warn motorists to avoid travel where possible.
🔴🌧Red Heavy Rain Warnings have been issued for Northland, Coromandel Peninsula, Bay of Plenty including Rotorua, and Gisborne from Tolaga bay northwards.
— MetService NZ (@MetService) January 20, 2026
There is threat to life in these areas from dangerous river conditions, significant flooding and slips. Conditions will… pic.twitter.com/9ACr8Pluxa
Forecast Outlook and Risks
Meteorologists are cautioning that this system could produce “rainfall amounts equivalent to a month’s worth of rain in just a couple of days” in parts of the upper North Island — a scenario that keeps flood risk elevated across catchments that are already saturated.
The uncertainty of the storm’s exact path means communities are urged to remain vigilant and prepared, as warning levels could change quickly. Emergency services are on high alert, and Civil Defence agencies are coordinating community response and support.
Safety and Preparedness
Authorities and forecasters recommend:
- Avoiding unnecessary travel while warnings are current.
- Keeping emergency kits ready, especially in isolated and low-lying areas.
- Monitoring official forecast updates from MetService and Civil Defence.
- Staying away from floodwaters and unstable terrain during heavy rain.
