Heavy rain and thunderstorms expected this afternoon and evening.
MetService has issued a severe thunderstorm watch for parts of the upper North Island this afternoon and evening. A warm, moist air mass combined with daytime heating is expected to trigger heavy showers and thunderstorms across Northland, Auckland, the far south of the Coromandel Peninsula, the far west of the Bay of Plenty, and the northwest corner of Waikato.
Between 3pm and 9pm today, there is a moderate risk of severe thunderstorms producing localised downpours of 25–40mm per hour. Rain of this intensity may cause surface or flash flooding, particularly in low-lying areas such as streams, rivers, and narrow valleys. Slips are also possible.
If you’re driving home from the boat ramp, please beware; driving conditions could become hazardous due to surface flooding and poor visibility in heavy rain.
A severe thunderstorm watch means conditions are favourable for severe thunderstorms in and near the affected areas. Residents should remain alert for changing weather, keep up with MetService updates, and check the Civil Defence Get Ready website for advice on storm safety and preparation.
