A man died after his vehicle was submerged in floodwaters as torrential rain battered the Waikato region overnight. The tragedy unfolded on State Highway 39 near the intersection with Kiwi Road at Puketotara around 9:15 p.m. on Friday, February 16, 2024.
Waikato Flooding: One Dead, State of Emergency Declared
A tropical low brought widespread flooding and a tragic loss of life to New Zealand’s North Island.
- A man was found deceased inside a vehicle submerged by floodwaters on State Highway 39.
- Ōtorohanga is under a state of emergency due to heavy rainfall and widespread flooding.
- Orange heavy rain warnings are in effect for parts of the Bay of Plenty and Gisborne.
- Dozens of roads across the North Island have been closed due to storm damage.
“Sadly, one person was located deceased inside the vehicle,” police said in a statement. State Highway 39 remains closed, and authorities are urging anyone traveling in the Waikato region to exercise extreme caution and avoid driving through flooded areas.
Q: What caused the flooding in the Waikato region?
A: A tropical low moving across the North Island brought heavy rainfall, leading to widespread flooding and dangerous conditions, particularly in the Waikato region and around Ōtorohanga.
The vehicle was discovered south of Ōtorohanga, a town now operating under a state of emergency following the relentless downpour. Ōtorohanga Mayor Rodney Dow expressed his sorrow over the “tragic loss of life” within the district.
“This is devastating news for our community. Right now, our focus is on supporting those affected by the widespread flooding, as well as emergency workers and support agencies who are also helping,” Dow said. “To the whānau, we extend aroha, love and heartfelt condolences during this incredibly difficult time.”
The severe weather event is impacting much of the North and east of the North Island. Orange heavy rain warnings were in place for the Bay of Plenty, east of Ōpōtiki, and Gisborne. Heavy rain watches covered Waikato south of Hamilton, Waitomo, and Hawke’s Bay. A severe thunderstorm watch extended to the Coromandel Peninsula, Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Rotorua, Taupo, and Gisborne.
Numerous roads have been shut down due to storm damage and flooding, disrupting travel throughout the affected areas. Authorities continue to assess the extent of the damage and work to restore access where possible.
