Severe thunderstorm watch issued for Auckland and Northland

A severe thunderstorm watch is in effect for Auckland and southwestern Northland from midday until 9pm on Friday. There is a moderate risk of severe thunderstorms in these areas, which could produce localised downpours with rainfall rates between 25mm and 40mm per hour.

These storms may cause flash flooding, particularly in low-lying areas such as narrow valleys, rivers, or streams, and could lead to slips. Driving conditions are expected to be hazardous due to poor visibility and surface flooding.

A broader risk of thunderstorms with heavy rain of 10mm to 25mm per hour extends from Northland through to the Tararua District. Some areas within this central belt, stretching from Waikato to northern Manawatū, face a low risk of storms becoming severe.

Unsettled weather is expected to continue into Saturday, which is election day. MetService meteorologist Alanna Burrows advised voters to monitor rain radar and forecasts if they are heading to polling stations.

How it developed

• Fri 6 Nov, 8:16amForecasters detected a 'nest of lightning' northwest of Northland on Friday morning as the low-pressure system moved across the country.

Where reports differ

• One report states the watch is for Auckland and Northland, while another specifies the watch covers Auckland and southwestern parts of Northland.

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