Severe thunderstorm watch issued for Auckland and Northland

A severe thunderstorm watch is in place for Auckland and southwestern Northland from midday until 9pm on Friday. There is a moderate risk that thunderstorms will become severe in these areas during Friday afternoon and evening. These storms could produce localised downpours with rainfall rates between 25 and 40mm per hour.

Auckland Emergency Management has warned that such intense rainfall can cause flash flooding in low-lying areas like rivers and valleys, and may lead to slips. Hazardous driving conditions, including poor visibility and surface flooding, are also expected. Forecasters detected a “nest of lightning” northwest of Northland on Friday morning.

The unsettled weather is driven by a warm, moist tropical airflow and a low-pressure system moving across the country. While some regions like Hastings may reach 30C, the weather is expected to be muggy and unstable. In Northland, the forecast rain may not provide significant relief from existing drought conditions.

Meteorologist Alanna Burrows advised voters to monitor rain radar and check forecasts if heading to polling stations. Conditions are expected to deteriorate on Saturday, with a risk of thunderstorms across parts of the North and South Islands. For the lower North Island, it has been suggested that voters get out early to avoid the rain.

How it developed

• Fri 6 Nov, 8:16amForecasters identified a 'nest of lightning' northwest of Northland on Friday morning.

Where reports differ

• One report suggests the thunderstorm risk on Saturday includes parts of the South Island, while another specifies potential heavy rain for Nelson and Marlborough.

Compiled from reports by Waikato Times, RNZ, NZ Herald, 1News, Stuff and Otago Daily Times.