Key Takeaways

• Over 13,000 lightning strikes and 2-centimeter hailstones have been recorded in the North Island due to torrential downpours
• A heavy rain warning is in place until 11pm on Wednesday for Bay of Plenty and Gisborne/Tai Rāwhiti, with thunderstorms and downpours possible
• MetService has issued weather warnings and watches for much of the North Island, including heavy rain watches and strong wind watches
• The severe weather is expected to improve from Thursday onwards
• Emergency services have responded to incidents, including a caravan being overturned and a house bus being hit by lightning

Introduction to the Severe Weather
The North Island of New Zealand has been experiencing severe weather, with over 13,000 lightning strikes and 2-centimeter hailstones recorded. The torrential downpours have caused flooding and disruptions in various areas, including Auckland and surrounding regions. MetService meteorologist Devlin Lynden stated that the big low has resulted in messy downpours, with 43 millimeters of rain recorded in an hour in Matamata, which is considered very heavy for New Zealand.

Weather Warnings and Watches
MetService has issued weather warnings and watches for much of the North Island, including heavy rain watches and strong wind watches. A heavy rain warning is in place until 11pm on Wednesday for Bay of Plenty and Gisborne/Tai Rāwhiti, with thunderstorms and downpours possible. Meteorologist Mmathapelo Makgabutlane noted that the most notable warning is for Bay of Plenty, with 80 to 120 millimeters of rain expected to fall before the end of the day. The heavy rain and thunderstorms may cause surface and flash flooding, making driving conditions extremely hazardous.

Severe Thunderstorms and Incidents
Severe thunderstorms have been detected in various areas, including near Wellsford, Kaiwaka, and South Head. MetService warned that the thunderstorms could be accompanied by very heavy rain, causing surface and flash flooding, and making driving conditions hazardous. There have been reports of incidents, including a caravan being overturned by a tornado-like phenomenon in a motor camp in rural Rangitīkei, and a house bus being hit by lightning. Emergency services responded to the incidents, with one person taken to Whanganui Hospital.

Weather Update and Forecast
MetService has been providing updates on the severe weather, including radar images showing heavy showers building over Northland. The service has also warned of strong wind watches in place for various regions, including Northland, Auckland, and Taranaki. In the South Island, heavy rain watches are in place for the Kaikōura Coast and the Chatham Islands, with a strong wind watch also in place. However, meteorologist Mmathapelo Makgabutlane stated that things are expected to improve from Thursday onwards, with the severe weather easing.

Conclusion and Precautions
The severe weather in the North Island has caused disruptions and incidents, and it is essential for residents to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety. With the heavy rain and thunderstorms expected to continue until Wednesday evening, it is crucial to stay informed about the latest weather updates and warnings. MetService has been providing regular updates, and residents are advised to follow the instructions of local authorities and emergency services. By taking necessary precautions and staying informed, residents can minimize the risks associated with the severe weather and stay safe until the weather improves from Thursday onwards.