-
Source: ONE News
People in the upper half of the North Island are being warned to prepare for possible power cuts and property damage from stormy weather.
A subtropical low bringing heavy rain and southeast gales is due to spread south from Northland this weekend, reaching Hawke's Bay early next week.
Forecasters today also said driving conditions were likely to be hazardous and outdoor activities disrupted.
Surface flooding and damage to trees and buildings could be expected.
Weatherwatch analyst Philip Duncan says it could be a nasty system, with the potential to cause slips, flooding and power cuts.
"We're not wanting to alarm people," he said.
"This is a moderate storm, but people should be prepared for power cuts and the potential for some damage."
Wind speeds could reach up to 160 kilometres an hour along the eastern Waikato and western Kaimais.
Severe Weather Warnings have been issued for Northland, Auckland, Coromandel and the Kaimai Ranges and for Waikato.
"The combination of the heavy rain and strong winds is likely to disrupt outdoor activities, make driving hazardous and lead to slips, flooding and rapidly rising streams and rivers," MetService forecaster Allister Gorman said.
Up to 150mm of rainfall is possible in Northland, from Whangarei northwards and parts of Rodney District.
Great Barrier Island, the Coromandel Peninsula and the Kaimai Ranges, in the Bay of Plenty, could receive up to 120mm of rain.
Farmers in these regions should consider moving stock to higher ground.
The heavy rain was predicted to hit the Gisborne area from Saturday night through to midday Monday, with readings of up to 150mm forecast.
Keep up to date with the latest weather information here.
Latest NZ News Video
-
Kiwi speaks to TVNZ7 from Everest base camp (1:59)
-
Immigration advisor Bill Milnes discusses claims (4:34)
-
Dance to save Shakti service (0:41)
