NZTA said while an orange heavy rain warning is in place west of Whakatāne, the Waioweka Gorge may close at short notice tomorrow.
MetService has issued an orange heavy rain warning for the Bay of Plenty west of Whakatāne from 9 am Thursday.
MetService said there is a high chance of this upgrading to a red warning.
Following this alert, NZTA is warning motorists to take caution when driving, as conditions will be "treacherous."
It said while the alert is in place for west of Whakatāne, conditions may change quickly.
"State Highway 2 through the Waioweka Gorge may be closed at short notice if conditions deteriorate and it becomes unsafe for travel."
It said the situation will be assessed as the forecast is updated.
NZTA encourages motorists to check for updates, allow for extra travelling time, and to prepare to use alternate routes.
Community Constable Rob Jones said drivers will need to increase their following distance, turn on lights, and avoid travel if possible.
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