Weather: Severe thunderstorm watch in place for central North Island

Heavy thunderstorms could strike the central North Island this afternoon, MetService says.

MetService has issued a severe thunderstorm warning for the central North Island this afternoon and evening.

This area includes Taupō, Waikato south of Tokoroa, Taumarunui, inland Bay of Plenty, Taranaki and Taihape.

Scattered heavy showers, thunderstorms and localised downpours of between 25–40mm an hour are expected within this area.