Severe warning lifted, but thunderstorm watch continues for Hawke’s Bay ahead of cooler weekend

Dark storm clouds over Hastings from Te Aute Rd on Friday afternoon. Photo / Anne Bishop

The severe thunderstorm warning for the Gisborne and Hawke’s Bay radar area has been lifted, with MetService saying storms in the region are no longer considered severe.

However, thunderstorms remain in the area, and MetService says it will continue to monitor conditions closely.

A Severe Thunderstorm Watch remains in force for Hawke’s Bay, Manawatū, Tararua and Wairarapa until 8pm.

MetService reports unstable conditions could still generate intense showers this afternoon and into the evening, with the potential for downpours and damaging hail.

“Large hail can cause significant damage to crops, orchards, vines, glasshouses and vehicles, as well as make driving conditions hazardous,” the report reads.

“Rainfall of this intensity can cause surface and/or flash flooding, especially about low-lying areas such as streams, rivers or narrow valleys, and may also lead to slips.”

On social media, residents reported large hail and torrential rain in the Makotuku and Ormondville areas in the Tararua District, with some describing near-zero visibility.

Residents are advised to stay alert and to continue monitoring MetService updates.

Looking ahead, the forecast shows a cooler and cloudier weekend for Hawke’s Bay.

Saturday is expected to be mostly cloudy and drizzly in the morning, with a few showers later in the day and southerlies developing before dawn.

Sunday brings a few showers and strengthening southerlies in the afternoon.

Early next week is expected to remain mostly cloudy with occasional rain and onshore winds.