Severe rainfall causes flooding in Auckland, around 60 homes evacuated

Ripu Bhatia Reporter from Auckland Stuff

Aucklanders are being forced to evacuate their homes after severe rainfall overnight caused localised flooding.

Around 50 to 60 homes have been evacuated and an emergency shelter has been set up at 6 Henderson Valley Road.

West Auckland has been hit the worst with flooding in Helensville, Kumeu, Henderson Valley and Rānui.

Firefighters received around 170 weather related calls overnight.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said evacuation advice overrides Covid-19 restrictions.

Auckland’s two vaccination centres at the Trusts Arena and the Airport have been damaged and will not open until 11am.

SH16 through Kumeu is closed due to flooding between Matua Road and Riverhead Road, and Waka Kotahi has reports of fallen trees and slips across the wider network.

MetService said heavy rain is expected to continue throughout Tuesday.

Neighbourly spokesperson Sarah Moore encourages people to check in on their neighbours - especially if they’re elderly or alone.

“But ensure you're abiding by Level 4 rules consider emailing, texting or using Neighbourly to send a message. Even if they're doing well, the connection will mean a lot,” she said.

“When there's a break in the weather carefully head outside to check whether anything is blocking your drains or has come loose in a storm. Don't rush - things could be slippery. If you do notice damage make sure you take photos in case you need to lodge an insurance claim.”