Key Takeaways
- A severe thunderstorm watch has been issued for Northland and Auckland from 3pm to 9pm on Friday
- Heavy rain warnings are in place for Gisborne and Hawke’s Bay, with up to 150mm of rain expected in Gisborne and 70-100mm in Hawke’s Bay
- The heavy rain is expected to cause surface flooding, slips, and hazardous driving conditions, and residents are urged to take precautions
- The slow-moving front is expected to bring periods of heavy rain to the North Island’s east coast over the weekend
Introduction to the Weather Warning
Northland and Auckland are under a severe thunderstorm watch this afternoon, while the North Island’s east coast is bracing for a soaking this weekend. MetService has issued a severe thunderstorm watch for the upper North Island, warning of a moderate risk of thunderstorms and localized downpours of up to 40mm an hour. This watch is in effect from 3pm to 9pm on Friday, and residents are advised to be prepared for the possibility of severe weather.
Severe Thunderstorm Watch for Northland and Auckland
The severe thunderstorm watch for Northland and Auckland is a result of a low-pressure system that is moving into the area. This system is expected to bring unstable weather conditions, including thunderstorms and heavy rain. The watch is in effect for a period of 6 hours, from 3pm to 9pm on Friday, and residents are urged to stay informed about the latest weather forecast. During this time, there is a moderate risk of thunderstorms and localized downpours of up to 40mm an hour. Residents are advised to clear drains and gutters, avoid low-lying areas, and drive cautiously.
Heavy Rain Warnings for Gisborne and Hawke’s Bay
Further south, heavy rain warnings are in place for Gisborne and Hawke’s Bay. In Gisborne, the warning is in effect from 11am Saturday to 11am Sunday, with up to 150mm of rain expected over 24 hours. Peak rates of 25-40mm per hour are possible during thunderstorms on Saturday, easing slightly after midnight. In Hawke’s Bay, the warning is in effect from 9am to 11pm on Saturday, with 70-100mm of rain expected. Thunderstorms north of Napier could bring short bursts of 25-40mm per hour. Residents in these areas are urged to take precautions, including clearing drains and gutters, avoiding low-lying areas, and driving cautiously.
Potential Impacts of the Heavy Rain
The heavy rain is expected to cause surface flooding, slips, and hazardous driving conditions. Streams and rivers may rise rapidly, and residents are urged to be aware of the potential risks. The heavy rain could also cause disruptions to daily life, including transportation and outdoor activities. Residents are advised to stay informed about the latest weather forecast and to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety. This includes avoiding travel unless necessary, staying away from floodwaters, and keeping an eye on the weather forecast for any updates.
Conclusion and Precautions
In conclusion, the severe thunderstorm watch and heavy rain warnings for the North Island are a cause for concern, and residents are urged to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety. The heavy rain is expected to cause surface flooding, slips, and hazardous driving conditions, and residents should be aware of the potential risks. By staying informed about the latest weather forecast and taking necessary precautions, residents can minimize the impacts of the heavy rain and stay safe. It is also important for residents to be prepared for the possibility of power outages, property damage, and other disruptions that may occur as a result of the severe weather.