An orange heavy rain warning is in place for Rotorua and the Bay of Plenty tomorrow.

MetService is forecasting 80 to 140mm of rain in parts of the region, especially about and east of Rotorua between 4am – 11pm tomorrow (Friday 12 April).

This could also include peak rates of 20 to 30 mm/h likely in localised downpours throughout the day, with thunderstorms also possible.

Council staff and contractors are monitoring weather forecasts and warnings and are taking the usual precautions to prepare for the expected heavy rain.

Council precautions and preparations ahead of tomorrows forecasted heavy rain include checking critical stormwater inlets to make sure they are clear, ensuring wastewater treatment storage ponds are as empty as possible and plant systems (including back-up provisions) are operating.

Be prepared

There are a number of things residents can do to prepare for a weather event:

• Keep an eye on MetService for the latest weather updates at www.metservice.com
• Check your own drains at home to ensure they are clear of any debris.
• In preparation for any localised or surface flooding, you can purchase sandbags from local hardware stores such as Bunnings and Landscape Supplies.
• Have an emergency preparedness plan and ensure everyone in your household is aware of what to do in an emergency – have an evacuation plan.

To report any weather related issues or if you need assistance, please contact Rotorua Lakes Council on 07 348 4199 (24/7).

To report an emergency, please call 111.

- Rotora Lakes Council