Batten down the hatches North Island - a severe thunderstorm warning has been issued.
MetService has forecast localised downpours of 25-40mm an hour and thunder between 2pm and 10pm today with a high risk of flash flooding.
“Rainfall of this intensity can cause surface and/or flash flooding, especially in low-lying
areas such as streams, rivers or narrow valleys, and may also lead to slips,” Metservice warned.
“Driving conditions will also be hazardous with surface flooding and poor visibility in heavy rain.”
Northland residents can expect to be hit with scattered thunderstorms about the western parts this afternoon and evening, bringing heavy rain.
