Key Takeaways:
- MetService is forecasting severe thunderstorms and heavy rain for parts of the North Island, with over 3500 lightning strikes recorded to 7am today.
- Severe thunderstorm watches and heavy rain warnings have been issued for several regions, including Northland, Auckland, and the Bay of Plenty.
- Up to 120mm of rain is expected for some areas, with peak intensities of 15-25mm/h and possible severe gales.
- The active low-pressure system is expected to move onto central and northern parts of the country today and move to the east of the country on Thursday.
- Residents are advised to stay informed and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.
Introduction to the Weather Forecast
The MetService is predicting a day of wild weather for parts of the North Island, with severe thunderstorms and heavy rain expected to hit several regions. The forecaster has reported over 3500 lightning strikes to 7am today, with more expected as the severe thunderstorms roll through. The rain radar is showing significant activity, with a high likelihood of surface and flash flooding in streams, gullies, and urban areas. The MetService has issued severe thunderstorm warnings and watches for several regions, including Northland, Auckland, and the Bay of Plenty.
Severe Thunderstorm Warnings and Watches
The MetService has issued severe thunderstorm watches for Northland, Auckland, and Great Barrier Island, which will be in effect from 9:30am to 5pm today. Additionally, a severe thunderstorm watch has been issued for the Coromandel Peninsula, Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Rotorua, and Taupō, which will be in effect from 1pm to 6pm today. These watches indicate a high risk of severe thunderstorms, with heavy rain, strong winds, and lightning possible. Residents in these areas are advised to stay informed and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.
Heavy Rain Warnings and Watches
Heavy rain warnings have been issued for several regions, including the Bay of Plenty, Gisborne/Tairāwhiti, and inland ranges. Up to 120mm of rain is expected for these areas, with peak intensities of 15-25mm/h and possible severe gales. The heavy rain warning for the Bay of Plenty, including Rotorua, will be in effect from 11am to 11pm today. Heavy rain watches have also been issued for Northland, Auckland, and the Coromandel Peninsula, which will be in effect from 9am to 4pm, 10am to 9pm, and 10am to 9pm, respectively.
Strong Wind Watches
Strong wind watches have been issued for several regions, including Taranaki, Eastern Tararua District, and Hawke’s Bay. These watches indicate a high risk of strong winds, with gusts of up to 100km/h possible. The strong wind watch for Taranaki will be in effect from 8pm tonight to 5am Thursday, while the watch for Eastern Tararua District and Hawke’s Bay will be in effect from midnight tonight to 1pm Thursday.
Impacts and Precautions
The severe thunderstorms and heavy rain are expected to cause significant disruptions, including surface and flash flooding, power outages, and hazardous driving conditions. Residents are advised to stay informed and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety. This includes avoiding travel unless necessary, staying away from flooded areas, and keeping an eye on the weather forecast for updates. The MetService will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as necessary.
Conclusion and Future Outlook
In conclusion, the MetService is predicting a day of severe weather for parts of the North Island, with severe thunderstorms and heavy rain expected to hit several regions. Residents are advised to stay informed and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety. The active low-pressure system is expected to move onto central and northern parts of the country today and move to the east of the country on Thursday, bringing an end to the severe weather. However, residents are advised to remain vigilant and stay up to date with the latest weather forecast.
