Key Takeaways
- Thunderstorms, heavy rain, and localized downpours are forecast to affect parts of the North Island
- A severe thunderstorm watch has been issued for Gisborne, Hawke’s Bay, and Waikato
- A heavy rain warning has been issued for Bay of Plenty and Rotorua, with up to 110mm of rain expected
- Residents in Auckland’s Northcote Point are without power due to a stormy night
- Reports of small tornadoes have been made in the North Island, including near Orewa and torohanga
Introduction to the Stormy Weather
Residents of the North Island are bracing themselves for another day of stormy weather, with thunderstorms, heavy rain, and localized downpours forecast to drench parts of the region. The MetService has issued a severe thunderstorm watch for Gisborne, Hawke’s Bay, and Waikato, warning of the potential for severe weather conditions. A heavy rain warning has also been issued for Bay of Plenty and Rotorua, with up to 110mm of rain expected on top of what has already fallen. This has led to concerns about flooding and disruptions to daily life, and residents are advised to stay indoors and avoid travel unless necessary.
Power Outages and Storm Damage
The stormy weather has already caused power outages in some areas, with residents in Auckland’s Northcote Point waking up to no electricity on Friday morning. The power outage was reported at around 6:30 am, and energy company Vector has said that work is underway to resolve the issue. The company expects to have the power restored between 10 and 11 am on Friday. The power outage is just one example of the disruptions caused by the stormy weather, and residents are advised to be prepared for further outages and disruptions throughout the day. The city was hit by heavy rain and thunderstorms overnight, causing damage to properties and infrastructure.
Tornadoes and Severe Weather
The North Island has also experienced reports of small tornadoes, with two incidents reported on Thursday. The first tornado was seen near Orewa, north of Auckland, at around 7 pm, while the second was reported near the Waikato town of torohanga. Luke Care, a resident of Maihiihi, near torohanga, described the tornado as forming very quickly and looking like a small water spout at first. He said that when he grabbed his camera, the tornado accelerated and formed into a full-on tornado, carrying on up into the mountains and then fading off in the distance. The reports of tornadoes are a reminder of the severity of the weather conditions and the need for residents to be vigilant and prepared.
Weather Warnings and Updates
The MetService has issued a severe storm warning for near Kawerau, Rotoehu, Totoitoi, and Lake Tarawerea, as well as Rerewhakaaitu. The storms moved east-south-east later on Friday morning, and lay near Waiohau, Matahina, Murupara, Kopuriki, and Galatea. Residents in these areas are advised to stay indoors and avoid travel unless necessary, and to be prepared for severe weather conditions. The MetService will continue to provide updates on the weather conditions, and residents are advised to stay tuned to local news and weather reports for the latest information. The severe thunderstorm watch and heavy rain warning are expected to remain in place throughout the day, and residents are advised to be prepared for further disruptions and outages.
Conclusion and Preparations
In conclusion, the North Island is experiencing severe stormy weather, with thunderstorms, heavy rain, and localized downpours forecast to affect parts of the region. Residents are advised to be prepared for power outages, flooding, and disruptions to daily life, and to stay indoors and avoid travel unless necessary. The reports of small tornadoes are a reminder of the severity of the weather conditions, and residents are advised to be vigilant and prepared. By staying informed and taking necessary precautions, residents can minimize the risks associated with the severe weather and stay safe until the storms pass. It is essential to prioritize safety and take all necessary precautions to ensure the well-being of individuals and communities.