It’s a much quieter day in the skies over the North Island with no thunderstorm warnings being issued as of 4pm.  Very little thunder activity is being detected however a band of thunderstorms and torrential rain has formed in southern parts of Auckland, mostly around Pukekohe and the Bombay hills.

The anvil clouds responsible can be clearly seen from across Auckland city.

Over Waikato similar clouds are forming and torrential downpours are appearing across mountains and ranges all over the North Island south of Auckland.

As the afternoon progresses heating is expected to rapidly grow these clouds with torrential rain spreading further out towards populated places. 

EDIT:  6:30PM:  PLEASE NOTE there are now 3 severe thunderstorm warnings in force… while lightning numbers are certainly well down on yesterday these violent thunderstorms are moving towards populated centres.  Check back for updates.

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