Source: Radio New Zealand
Thunderstorm building near Wairoa. Supplied
A severe thunderstorm warning has been issued for central Hawke’s Bay, Hastings and Wairoa, with torrential rain and flooding possible.
MetService said its weather radar has detected severe thunderstorms near Tiniroto, Hangaroa, Te Reinga, Ruakituri, Tahunga, Tikokino, Bridge Pa, Maraekakaho, Pakipaki, Te Hauke, Pukehou, Poukawa and Gwava.
The weather is moving towards the southeast and expected to hit just before 3pm, with torrential rain that could cause surface and flash flooding.
Someone working near Te Reinga said thunderstorm clouds were building and thunder had been rumbling loudly for several minutes.
“These thunderstorms are expected to be accompanied by torrential rain and hail,” MetService posted on X. “Hail can cause damage to crops, orchards and vines, and may make driving conditions hazardous.”
Severe Thunderstorm Warning
Area: Central Hawkes Bay, Hastings
Forecast: At 02:15 pm, MetService weather radar detected severe thunderstorms near TIKOKINO, BRIDGE PA, MARAEKAKAHO, PAKIPAKI, TE HAUKE, PUKEHOU, POUKAWA and GWAVAS.
These severe thunderstorms are moving towards… pic.twitter.com/8ktKefn0hU
— MetService NZ (@MetService) November 14, 2025
National Emergency Management Agency’s advice
- Take shelter, preferably indoors away from windows
- Avoid sheltering under trees, if outside
- Get back to land, if outdoors on the water
- Move cars under cover or away from trees
- Secure any loose objects around your property
- Check that drains and gutters are clear
- Be ready to slow down or stop, if driving
During and after the storm, you should also:
- Beware of fallen trees and power lines
- Avoid streams and drains as you may be swept away in flash flooding
Bay of Plenty, Taupo, Gisborne and the wider Hawke’s Bay area remain under a severe thunderstorm watch.
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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand
