State Highway 56 at Opiki near Palmerston North has closed this evening as floodwaters continue to rise.

Heavy and persistent rainfall through Manawatū overnight has caused flooding in a number of places.

SH56 at Opiki will remain closed overnight and crews will reassess the situation in the morning.

Pease drive with extra care on other state highways today, and to the conditions and make sure to check Journey Planner or Facebook (external link) before you go for the latest state highway conditions.

If you do need to travel today, remember to switch on your headlights on, increase your following distance and be prepared for unexpected hazards in these conditions.

Please also be aware of the possibility of short notice road closures as we continue to monitor the warnings in place, the rainfall levels and any possible slips or damage, such as fallen trees.

Crews are currently monitoring the region’s state highways.