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National | East Cape

Gisborne flooding worst in 20 years

Wild weather struck many parts of the central North Island yesterday with road closures, extensive flooding and rising rivers.

However, it was the east coast city of Gisborne and its surrounding areas that were hit hardest, with residents saying it is the worst flooding in twenty years.

A total of 144m of rain was recorded within just 24 hours and the main road from Gisborne through to Ōpōtiki was forced to close.

The small township of Te Karaka was completely cut off from Gisborne by flooded roads. Fortunately, rain eased yesterday afternoon, meaning residents could remain in their homes.

Although floodwaters and rivers are receding, the East Cape is in for another bout of bad weather tomorrow.

Police will be assessing the roads throughout the area this morning.

If you live in the Gisborne district and are wanting to keep up to date with road closures and river and rainfall data, you can check out the gdc.govt.nz