This watch affects people in the following weather forecast districts:
Waikato, Waitomo, Taumarunui, Bay Of Plenty, Rotorua, Taupo, Taihape.

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Thunderstorms are expected to develop in inland Bay of Plenty, Taupo, Taihape, Taumaranui, and eastern parts of Waitomo and Waikato this afternoon and evening…

These storms are expected to be slow moving, and some of these may be severe with localised rainfall rates of 25 to 40mm/hr. Rainfall of this intensity can cause 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.

This thunderstorm activity should ease tonight. In addition, severe thunderstorms may develop in the afternoon and evening of Tuesday 26th January in the following areas; the ranges of Hawkes Bay and Gisborne, Taupo, Taumaranui, and inland parts of Waikato and Waitomo. A Severe Thunderstorm Watch for these areas may be issued closer to the time.

Have you seen lightning or heard thunder today?  Post a comment below with you eyetwitness reports.