Guy Dixon, 28 May 2016, 2:24 AM UTC
Kiwis in for a pounding
A strong and complex low is moving over New Zealand and has been generating heavy rain, isolated thunderstorms and gale force winds.
While the initial threat of heavy rain and northerly pre-frontal gales is easing, a second burst is on the horizon.
A second low pressure system which is situated over the Tasman Sea is moving eastward towards our trans-Tasman neighbour. As this system approaches the land of the long white cloud, it is expected to lose structure, but still steer north/northwesterly gales and heavy rainfall over western parts of the North Island late this evening and into Sunday.
Thunderstorms are a chance over western parts of the North Island and far northern parts of the South Island this afternoon and evening. Heavy downpours delivering 10-25mm per hour are a high chance over Taranaki and Hamilton, with wind gusts up to 110km/h also a risk. Further south, the risk is not quite as great, although Nelson and Marlborough Sounds may see similar conditions.
The Bay of Plenty should also be aware of heavy downpours throughout the afternoon, with 20-40mm per hour a risk, in addition to 90-100km/h winds.
Thunderstorms remain a moderate risk throughout Sunday morning over eastern parts of the North Island, easing thereafter as the system continues east.
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