No Sun this Weekend for Tasman

Weather Map Friday 11 Feb Tropical Cyclone DOVI bearing down on us

Tasman District Council Principal Hydrologist Martin Doyle explains what we may expect from the weather this weekend.

 "Last week’s rain gave us a good reminder of nature’s potential to wreak havoc – 600mm in Golden Bay over three days and significant rainfall around the Richmond Ranges and out to Hira was testament to that.

 

"As you’ll be aware Buller has copped it once again in the last day or so and this has extended to the southern reaches of Tasman District. We’ve also had some road closures south of Murchison due to slips.

 

"The Friday lunchtime MetService advice was that ex-tropical cyclone DOVI was most likely to pass over central North Island.

Cyclone DOVI over NZ Sunday 13 Feb weather map

"For our region, this means strong easterly winds, and expect moderate to heavy rain (around 150mm in the next 24 hours) across the northern fringe of our region. 

 

"We’re expecting to see surface flooding – annual level flooding at worst - and some slips as a result of the weather, so we’re going to be on alert to provide updates on conditions and respond to the situation as and when it is needed.

 

"Areas mostly likely to be affected are Hira and Collins valleys through to Rai, Riwaka and the Takaka Hill, and the coastal fringe from Tākaka around to Pakawau.  For periods they also expect moderate rain in the Lakes to Upper Buller area, but nothing like the totals and intensities seen over the past week.  

 

"There is the potential for stream and rivers that drain the Richmond Ranges to flood to annual levels – these streams being Collins, Hira and Maitai.  Further slips are very possible through this area.

 

"Expect moderate flooding in the Riwaka area but the Takaka Hill road will get more rain this time and may be vulnerable to slips.  The same advice extends to the  eastern side of the Abel Tasman National Park.

 

"Small rivers and streams in northern Golden Bay may reach annual flood levels.

 

"We are not expecting flooding in our larger rivers to reach more than relatively minor levels – less than an annual flood.

 

"While the effects of DOVI remain moderate for our region, should the path change, this advice will also change. 

Thanks to Principal Hydrologist Martin Doyle and Tim O'Connell Communications Officer Tasman District Council

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