Severe thunderstorm watch for region

There is a severe thunderstorm watch for the region this afternoon. Photo/File

There is a severe thunderstorm watch for Bay of Plenty and Taupo this afternoon and into the evening.

Metservice said in a statement afternoon heating and wind convergence in a very humid air mass is leading to the formation of showers over much of the North Island with conditions good for severe thunderstorms, possibly bringing localised downpours of up to 40mm/hr.

The highest risk is this afternoon and early evening over the eastern parts of Bay of Plenty, Taupo, Taihape, Wanganui, inland Manawatu, Hawkes Bay ranges, Gisborne, and the Tararua Range.

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

Driving conditions will also be hazardous with surface flooding and poor visibility in heavy rain.