Drivers in the Top of the South are being warned access between Blenheim and Nelson will be cut tonight, with State Highway 6 set to close due to expected flooding.
The decision comes with MetService weather warnings in place and heavy rain forecast to peak this evening.
Regional manager – Lower North Island / Top of the South Mark Owen says weather and hydrology data show flooding is expected to affect State Highway 6 near Canvastown.
“With this in mind, we have decided to close the highway between Dalton’s Bridge (Canvastown) and Pelorus Bridge from 6pm tonight. It will reopen when it is safe to do so,” Mark says.
“This is first and foremost about keeping people safe. Flooded roads after dark are a significant danger. It is essential drivers respect the road closure and do not breach it.”
Soft closures will be in place at Havelock and Rai Valley. Residents can travel beyond these points, but all other drivers travelling between Blenheim and Nelson will need to detour via State Highway 63 through Wairau Valley.
The detour is a longer route and requires extra travel time. It may also be affected by poor weather, so drivers are urged to check road conditions before travelling.
Drivers in Nelson and Tasman are also being asked to stay alert to changing weather and road conditions.
Mark says significant rain is still expected, particularly in the Riwaka, Upper Motueka, Upper Wai-iti and Motupiko catchments.
“This means we can expect flooding and impacts in known problem areas – State Highway 60 at Cooks Corner, State Highway 60 over Tākaka Hill, and State Highway 6 near Kohatu,” he says.
“Road closures at these locations are possible, potentially at short notice. We recommend people wait until the worst of the weather passes before they travel.”
General advice for drivers
This weather event is affecting:
• State Highway 60 – Richmond to Collingwood
• State Highway 6 – Hira to Havelock
• State Highway 6 – Nelson to Murchison
• State Highway 65 – O’Sullivans Bridge to Springs Junction
• State Highway 63 – Wairau Valley
• State Highway 1 – Blenheim to Seddon
Drivers are urged to stay up to date with road and weather conditions, as severe weather increases the risk of flooding, slips, rockfalls and fallen trees. Even once the rain eases, roads may remain affected.
Road crews are on call and will respond to incidents as they occur, although stand-downs may be required if conditions become too dangerous.
Highway issues can be reported to Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency on 0800 4 HIGHWAYS (0800 44 44 49).
