Hundreds of homes are without power across the west of the North Island as thunderstorms with “frequent lightning” move over the region.
MetService issued a severe thunderstorm watch for Waitomo, Taumaranui, Taranaki, Taihape and Whanganui on Sunday, for the period from approximately 1.20pm to 5pm.
A band of “very active” thunderstorms is moving slowly northeast over the area this afternoon, the forecaster said.
These thunderstorms bring localised heavy rain of 10-25mm/h, hail and squally wind gusts of 80-110km/h in some western areas.
“Although the rain, hail and wind associated with the thunderstorms may not reach severe thunderstorm criteria, the thunderstorms are producing widespread frequent lightning which could cause localised damage and affect power and internet connections.”
Provider PowerCo are reporting around 1100 homes without power in Taranaki and around 200 in Manawatu-Whanganui as of 3pm on Sunday.
MetService warns to take shelter immediately if severe weather approaches.
The thunderstorms are expected to ease around 5pm.