Rain and thunder is being predicted for the Bay of Plenty today as a severe weather watch remains in place.

The MetService says today will see rain, with a chance of it being heavy at times and possible thunder.

The MetService is predicting a chance of heavy rain and thunder today. Image: MetService.

This is supposed to clear tonight, with northwest winds changing to the southwest.

'A front moved over the lower North Island overnight and will cross the remainder of the North Island today,” says a statement from the weather organisation.

'This front is preceded by very strong and moist northwesterlies.”

In the Bay of Plenty, particularly the Eastern Bay, periods of heavy rain are expected. Rainfall accumulations could approach warning criteria (for example 70 to 100mm in a 12 to 18 hour period).

For the remaining parts of the Bay, the MetService says periods of rain are expected, with localised heavy falls and possible thunderstorms.

'This could produce localised accumulations of 25 to 40mm or more in a two to three hour period.

'There is considerable uncertainty regarding the area most likely to be affected if this rain band does develop, but there is the potential for localised surface flooding and hazardous driving conditions.”

All Severe Weather Warnings lifted. But we are expecting a few localised heavy showers/ possible thunderstorms. ^EB https://t.co/KUEu3h7Xf1

— MetService (@MetService) November 27, 2015