'Massive' storm to hit Taranaki: "Driving conditions will be dangerous"

BREAKING NEWS: Metservice has issued a severe thunderstorm watch for the central North Island, including Waikato, the Bay of Plenty, Rotorua, Taupo, Gisborne, Hawke's Bay but mainly Taranaki where driving conditions will be dangerous. 

The storm, which will hit on Tuesday afternoon, could bring heavy rainfall of up to 25 to 40mm/hr that could cause surface and flash flooding, MetService says.

The area could also be hit by hail.

"Rainfall of this intensity can cause flash flooding, especially about low-lying areas such as streams, rivers or narrow valleys, and may also lead to slips," MetService said.

"Driving conditions will also be hazardous with surface flooding and poor visibility in heavy rain."

The storm will be at peak at around 6.30pm but that time is an estimation only. 

In Taranaki wide spread power outages have already been reported and South Taranaki is nearly fully out of power and is unreachable. 

A South Taranaki resident said "We're being completly hammered". 

CIVIL DEFENCE SEND ALERT

The Civil Defence in some New Zealand regions are sending alerts out. 

Civil Defence has put up infomation on there website, and also getthru.govt.nz

AS A WARNING IS ISSUED:

Stay informed on weather updates. Listen to your local radio stations as civil defence authorities will be broadcasting the most appropriate advice for your community and situation.
Put your household emergency plan into action and check your getaway kit in case you have to leave in a hurry.
Secure, or move indoors, all items that could get blown about and cause harm in strong winds.
Close windows, external and internal doors. Pull curtains and drapes over unprotected glass areas to prevent injury from shattered or flying glass.
If the wind becomes destructive, stay away from doors and windows and shelter further inside the house.
Water supplies can be affected so it is a good idea to store drinking water in containers and fill bathtubs and sinks with water.
Don't walk around outside and avoid driving unless absolutely necessary.
Power cuts are possible in severe weather. Unplug small appliances which may be affected by electrical power surges. If power is lost unplug major appliances to reduce the power surge and possible damage when power is restored.
Bring pets inside. Move stock to shelter. If you have to evacuate, take your pets with you.