North Islanders from Auckland to Taupo are being warned to expect intense rain and thunderstorms this afternoon.
A severe thunderstorm watch is in place for Auckland, the Coromandel Peninsula, Waikato, the Bay of Plenty and Rotorua from midday until 9pm. Locals are being warned there is a potential forflash flooding and driving conditions could become hazardous.
There is currently a strong wind warning in place for the Rimutaka Hill. Please take extra care, especially if you are in a high-sided vehicle or on a motorcycle. ^EL pic.twitter.com/ehOUSbtT9S
— Waka Kotahi NZTA Wellington (@WakaKotahiWgtn) February 4, 2018
These regions have a moderate risk of thunderstorms during the afternoon and evening - though there is a risk they could become severe later in the day.
Other spots including Northland and Whanganui have a low risk of stormy weather, as do South Island areas such as Westland, Buller and northwest Nelson.
A series of fronts expected to move over the South Island during the afternoon and evening will bring a drop in temperatures and strong gusts.
The rain is not expected to go anywhere as the week progresses. Wet and windy weather is forecast over the North Island until the end of the week.
About 100 people were evacuated from houses in Piha and a group of 20 people were also trapped for three hours after a stream near Kitekite Falls flooded, stopping them from returning to their cars.
