Parts of the central West Coast have been flooded after downpours inundated stormwater systems this morning.
The Grey District Council said 54mm of rain was recorded in just six hours.
"Our backyard is now a dirty Olympic swimming pool," one Cobden resident told 1News.
Do you have information or photos/video of the flooding? Email news@tvnz.co.nz
New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi said State Highway 7 was closed between Greymouth and Stillwater due to flooding.
"Road users are advised to avoid the area of delay their journey if possible," an NZTA spokesperson said.
A detour was available via Taylorville Rd and State Highway 6.
"People should be aware there are several slips on the detour route, and it is not suitable for heavy traffic.
The closure and slips come as heavy rain had been predicted for the West Coast, ahead of potential snow and ice affecting lower and central South Island roads over the next few days.
The district council said it was "aware of flooding in parts of Greymouth and Cobden following the thunderstorm".
It said Cobden, Wickes St, Northern Richmond St, Bright St lower by Range Creek, Barkley Pl, Peel S, Sturge St upper were all areas with high surface water.
Bright St inn Cobden was reportedly closed due to flooding.
"There are reports of a tree down on Taylorville Road," the council said.
"For southbound traffic: Turn right onto Taylorville Road, follow Taylorville Road then turn left onto State Highway 6 to continue south. Reverse for northbound. Please note there are several slips on the detour route, and it is not suitable for heavy traffic.
"Please be aware that floodwaters may contain sewage. Cobden residents should be careful," NZTA said.
Fire and Emergency NZ Southern shift manager Lyn Crosson said there were nine callouts to homes that had flooded or were at risk of flooding between 3.30am and 6am this morning.
There was also a call to a road slip in Cobden.
She said there was a real downpour overnight but once the rain stops, the floodwaters would recede and tended to fix itself.
Her message to the community was: "if your home is at risk of being flooded, call 111 and be proactive about moving things out of flood risk."
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