'Don't wait': Council warns Wairoa residents to be ready to evacuate amid heavy rain

Wairoa District Council is telling residents to be ready to leave at a moment's notice.

There is an orange heavy rain warning for the ranges of Hawke's Bay, north of Napier, until 9am Friday.

MetService said: "Expect 100 to 130mm of rain on top of what has already fallen. Peak rates of 10 to 20 mmh expected today."

Following discussions with its flood modellers on Thursday evening, the council said there are increasing concerns that river levels may rise significantly overnight.

At this time, its concern is for the lower catchment of the Wairoa River.

"While the Wairoa River mouth is open, outgoing water and rising flow is competing against large 3m-4m swells coming in from the coast," it said.

"More water is also expected to flow into the Wairoa River from the upper catchments, with further heavy rain forecast overnight."

High tide was expected around 12.47am on Friday, with intense periods of rain between now and 3am.

People living in a low-lying area, are advised to prepare now as conditions may change quickly.

The council was encouraging people who lived in a low-lying area to prepare now.

"Have essential items ready, know where you will go if you need to leave, and be ready to move quickly if conditions change."

"If you are concerned about your safety, please don't wait," it said.

"Move now to higher ground or stay with family or friends in a safe location."

Mayor Craig Little said the emergency operations centre has been stood up and will be monitoring the situation through the night.

Meanwhile, more than 700 properties are without power.

The council said Firstlight Network crews were working to restore power as safely and as quickly as conditions allow.

With heavy rain continuing, the council was urging people to extra care on the roads and avoid unnecessary travel where possible.