A severe thunderstorm watch is currently in force.

The watch issued by the MetService covers areas in the Bay of Plenty, Coromandel Peninsula, Rotorua, Waitomo and Waikato.

"Scattered thunderstorms are expected about parts of the northern half of the North Island today, with localised heavy rain and hail," said the latest update from the weather organisation.

:For Waikato, Waitomo, Coromandel Peninsula (south of about Whitianga) and Western parts of Bay of Plenty and Rotorua (from about Whakatane westwards), a few of the thunderstorms may be severe between 1pm and 9pm today (Boxing Day) with localised downpours of 25-40mm/h (or possibly more).

"Rainfall of this intensity can cause surface and/or flash flooding, especially about low-lying areas such as streams, rivers or narrow valleys, and may also lead to slips.

"Driving conditions will also be hazardous with surface flooding and poor visibility in heavy rain. The thunderstorms activity should ease this evening."

A Severe Thunderstorm Watch is in force for this afternoon and evening.

Scattered thunderstorms are expected about parts of the northern half of the North Island today, with localised heavy rain and hail.

All the details here https://t.co/GZIq9J48pw pic.twitter.com/bW98PmgYYf

— MetService (@MetService) December 25, 2024

Severe Thunderstorm Watch

Period: 8hrs from 1pm - 9pm Thu, 26 Dec

Area: Coromandel Peninsula, Waikato, Waitomo, Bay of Plenty, Rotorua