Severe thunderstorm watch issued for parts of North Island

A severe thunderstorm watch has been issued for parts of the North Island this afternoon, with potential for localized downpours and flash flooding. The watch is in effect from 1pm to 9pm today for inland Bay of Plenty, eastern Taupō, inland Gisborne, and the Wairoa District.

Severe Thunderstorm Watch for North Island

MetService said afternoon and evening thunderstorms are expected in the affected areas. A watch indicates the potential for thunderstorm development, differing from a warning which signifies a thunderstorm is already occurring.

“These thunderstorms may become severe, producing localised downpours with rainfall rates of 25mm to 40mm per hour,” the forecaster stated. Rainfall of this intensity could cause surface and/or flash flooding, particularly in low-lying areas such as streams, rivers, or narrow valleys, and may also lead to slips.

Driving conditions are expected to be hazardous due to surface flooding and poor visibility in heavy rain.

South Island Weather Update

Meteorologist Mmathapelo Makgabutlane noted a “relatively settled start to the week” but indicated conditions are changing, with potential for “intense downpours and hail” across both islands. A heavy rain watch has been issued for Fiordland and southern Westland, effective Thursday, with the possibility of more intense rain in the evening as thunderstorms move through.

Further watches and warnings are likely as weather systems bring heavy rain and strong winds to the South Island and lower North Island.

Warm Temperatures Expected

Eastern parts of the country are expected to experience very warm conditions in the coming days, with temperatures rising into the 30s from Friday through the weekend. Heat alerts are likely to be issued for parts of Hawke’s Bay, Marlborough, and possibly coastal Canterbury.

The lower South Island is forecast to be unsettled over the weekend, with heavy rain expected in the west on Sunday and blustery winds elsewhere, extending into the lower North Island.

Earlier this week, the forecaster predicted “a great deal of sunshine and dry weather, albeit the odd afternoon shower here and there.” Residents of Tauranga and Whitianga observed sun “halos” in the skies yesterday.