A severe thunderstorm warning issued for the Far North and Whangārei this morning has been lifted, as rain intensities ease.
Around 6.30am, MetService meteorologist Maddy Neal told 1News that a weather radar detected severe thunderstorms offshore north of Cape Brett, Purerua, Paihia and Kerikeri at 6.15am.
"These severe thunderstorms are moving towards the south, and are expected to lie near Kawakawa, Paihia, Moerewa, Russell, Ōpua, Waitangi, Ngawha Springs and Opahi at 6.45am and near Kawakawa, Towai, Moerewa, Opahi, Nukutawhiti and Awarua at 7.15am," she said.
Neal said these thunderstorms were expected to be accompanied by torrential rain.
Shortly before 7am, MetService said "rain intensities have eased".
"Some heavy rain is still expected but the threat of torrential rain has passed."
Neal said people should still drive carefully during their morning commute.
MetService meteorologist Heather Keats said there was a front that would move up over the South Island over the weekend. (Source: Breakfast)
The National Emergency Management Agency advised that as storms approach, people should:
"Take shelter, preferably indoors away from windows; avoid sheltering under trees, if outside; get back to land, if outdoors on the water; move cars under cover or away from trees; secure any loose objects around your property; check that drains and gutters are clear; be ready to slow down or stop, if driving."
During and after the storm, people should also be aware of fallen trees and power lines and avoid streams and drains as you may be swept away in flash flooding.
Full watches and warnings list
Heavy Rain Warning - Orange
Gisborne/Tairāwhiti north of Tolaga Bay – 20 hours from midnight Thursday to 8pm today.
Heavy Rain Watch
Bay of Plenty west of Kawerau – 14 hours from 7pm Thursday to 9am today.
Bay of Plenty about and east of Kawerau – 16 hours from 7pm Thursday to 11am today.
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