Early-morning lightning strike knocks out <br>Mount Maunganui traffic lights

Traffic lights at the Totara St intersection with Maui St were struck by lightning. Photo/File

A set of traffic lights is out of action on Totara St after being struck by lightning.

In a statement, Tauranga City Council asked road users to be careful when using the Maui St intersection on Totara St.

"Contractors are working to restore operation but repairs may take several days, depending on the extent of the damage," the Council said.

This follows earlier news that a dog was killed in its kennel after lightning struck a rural Te Puke property during a thunderstorm this morning.

The thunderstorm struck between 4am and 5am, and while the rain has since eased forecasters say it is expected to continue and be heavy at times throughout the day, bringing the risk of flooding.

There is also a power outage in Pukehina, although it is unclear whether this is weather related.