Severe storms brought flash flooding to streets in Wairoa on Saturday, prompting a series of severe thunderstorm watches and heavy rain warnings across the North Island. The disruption began with a severe thunderstorm warning issued for Wairoa at 11am, renewed twice before being lifted in the early afternoon.
According to MetService, conditions were “favourable for severe thunderstorms” as a low-pressure system moved across the island throughout Saturday and Sunday. The thunderstorms tracked east-southeast, bringing torrential rain and surface flooding to low-lying areas. The Wairoa District Council advised residents to monitor river levels, rainfall, and flood conditions, utilizing updates shared through social media.
Reports of funnel clouds added to the dramatic weather events, with sightings near Paeroa and Parua Bay near Whangārei. MetService reported a rainfall rate of 33 millimeters in one hour up to 11am in Wairoa.
Severe thunderstorm watches were in effect for the Coromandel Peninsula, Bay of Plenty, Rotorua, Waikato, Waitomo, Taupō, Northland, Auckland, and Hawke’s Bay. Heavy rain warnings were also issued for Gisborne/Tairāwhiti and Hawke’s Bay, with forecasts of 110–170mm of rainfall in Gisborne through Sunday morning and 90–140mm in Hawke’s Bay, potentially reaching 170mm in the Wairoa District.
MetService forecaster Gerard Bellan urged caution in affected areas, warning of potential downpours, flash flooding, and hazardous driving conditions. While many warnings were expected to be lifted later Saturday, the heavy rain warnings for Gisborne and Hawke’s Bay were anticipated to remain in place until Sunday morning.
Frequently Asked Questions
What areas are currently under a severe thunderstorm watch?
According to the information provided, the Coromandel Peninsula, Bay of Plenty, Rotorua, Waikato, Waitomo, Taupō, Northland, Auckland, and Hawke’s Bay are all under a severe thunderstorm watch.
What is the rainfall forecast for Gisborne/Tairāwhiti?
Gisborne/Tairāwhiti is forecast to receive 110–170mm of rain through to Sunday morning, with localized downpours potentially reaching 40mm per hour.
Were any unusual weather phenomena observed during the storms?
Funnel clouds were spotted in several areas across the North Island, including near Paeroa and at Parua Bay near Whangārei.
As conditions evolve, will residents in affected areas continue to experience severe weather, or is the worst of the storm system passing?
