A severe weather warning remains in place for the Bay of Plenty this morning.

The MetService issued the warning yesterday, in anticipation of heavy rain for the region.

'A large low pressure system over the Tasman Sea moves slowly eastwards. An associated front is forecast to move across the country on Monday, which is preceded by northeasterly rain,” says a statement from the weather organisation.

'The heaviest falls are likely about Bay of Plenty, the ranges of Nelson west of Motueka, and the Kaikoura Ranges.”

Heavy Rain Warning

Heavy rain may cause streams and rivers to rise rapidly. Surface flooding and slips are also possible and driving conditions may be hazardous.

Area: Bay Of Plenty including Rotorua Valid: 22 hours from 9pm Sunday to 7pm Monday.

Forecast: Periods of heavy rain should continue through to Monday evening. Expect a further 90 to 110mm of rain from Whakatane eastwards, especially about the ranges, and 50 to 80mm elsewhere.

Peak rates of 10 to 20mm/hr, with isolated thunderstorms possible. Note, heavy rain should ease west of Whakatane by Monday afternoon.