A severe thunderstorm watch is in place for many North Island regions, including the Bay of Plenty.

In its latest weather update, the MetService says conditions are favourable for the development of severe thunderstorms with localised downpours this afternoon and early evening.

The watch is in place from Northland southwards through Auckland, Coromandel Peninsula, eastern Waikato, Bay of Plenty including Rotorua, Gisborne, Taupo, eastern Taihape and inland Hawke's Bay.

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

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

A severe thunderstorm watch means conditions are favourable for severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area.

"People in these areas should be on the lookout for threatening weather conditions and monitor for possible Severe Thunderstorm Warnings."

Thunderstorm watch

Area: Northland, Auckland, Coromandel Peninsula, Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Rotorua, Taupo, Gisborne, Hawkes Bay, Taihape
Valid: 9 hours from 12pm Sat 6 Jan to 9pm Sat 6 Jan