A red severe thunderstorm warning has been issued for the bottom of the North Island as strong wind warnings and watches remain in place for other areas.
Severe thunderstorms were detected by MetService’s radar near Castlepoint, Riversdale, offshore Castlepoint, Whareama, Stronvar and Whakataki.
They were forecast to move in a northeast direction and are expected to lie near offshore Castlepoint and Mataikona at 4.45pm.
“Due to the fast moving nature of this line and the embedded storms, there is a risk of severe thunderstorms with damaging wind gusts of around 130km/h. Wind gusts of this strength can cause some structural damage, including trees and power lines, and may make driving hazardous,” MetService said.
A severe thunderstorm warning remains in place for Tararua, Wairarapa, Wellington, Marlborough, Canterbury plains, Canterbury high country and the Hawke’s Bay.
MetService has issued strong orange wind warnings for Wellington, coastal Wairarapa, and the Kaikōura Coast from 3pm until 6pm.
A strong wind watch is in place for Hawke’s Bay south of Hastings and the Tararua District.
Severe gales could gust to 120km/h in exposed places and damage trees, powerlines, and unsecured structures, the forecaster said.
“Driving may be difficult, especially for high-sided vehicles and motorcycles.”
There is also a moderate risk of thunderstorms with heavy rain, hail and wind gust of 90 to 110km/h around the Māhia Peninsula.
