Heavy rain and strong winds are predicted to hit Northland today, with up to 50mm of rain expected in some areas over six hours from around midday.

The MetService said a deep low approaching the country from the north Tasman Sea today, is expected to to cross New Zealand tonight and Friday, bringing significant rain and strong winds to the North Island today and tomorrow.

In Northland today rainfall could be as much as 50mm in six hours or 70mm in 12 hours until midnight tonight. The rain is expected to be accompanied by strong winds.