Power is out across homes in Bethlehem, Gate Pa, and Tauriko as severe weather rips through the region.

Powerco estimates contractors should have the power back on by around 9am this morning.

Heavy rain overnight has caused power outages and surface flooding in the Bay.

The MetService issued a severe weather warning for the Bay of Plenty and Coromandel last night and the warning remains in place today.

A front associated with a low over the north Tasman Sea approached northern New Zealand last night and is now making its way slowly southeast over the North Island.

'Strong to gale northeasterlies precede this front, bringing a period of heavy rain to many northern areas,” says the MetService.

In the last 24 hours, 54.6mm of rain has fallen in the Bay of Plenty with the highest peak being 23.8mm in one hour.

More rain is forecast for today with the chance of thunderstorms.

The MetService is predicting the rain to ease this evening.

Have you seen any effects from the severe weather? Send your photos to: newsroom@thesun.co.nz