It’s not just the upper North Island in the firing line from bad weather. Drivers in the Lower North Island and upper South Island also need to be prepared.
The Metservice has multiple weather warnings for Wairarapa, Nelson, Tasman, and other parts of the upper South Island.
A severe thunderstorm watch is in place for Manawatu, Tararua, Wairarapa, Marlborough, Nelson, Buller, Canterbury Plains, and the Canterbury High Country between 1 pm and 9 pm today.
These thunderstorms may be severe, with sudden intense rain bursts and hail.
Heavy rain watches are also in force for northwest Tasman, the Richmond and Bryant ranges, the Rai Valley area and the Marlborough Sounds.
This means there is an increased risk of localised flooding, slips, rock and treefalls across the state highway networks in these regions.
Road users should drive to the conditions, use their headlights if visibility is poor, watch their speed and following distances, and be prepared for hazards.
With the bad weather forecast to continue, drivers should check road conditions and weather alerts before they travel.
