Just in case you missed it, the skies opened up last night and released a deluge of rain onto the Bay last night.

But it looks like it might be getting a bit better throughout the day.

MetService is reporting a day of rain, with the chance of thunderstorms, but easing to showers in the afternoon.

MetService predicted 21mm of rainfall between 6am-8am this morning, with a total forecasted rainfall of 55mm today.

Bay of Plenty Regional Council say rains of between 35mm-55mm/hr have been received Te Puke, Matata Straights and Whakatane.

Te Puke weather station has recorded rainfall of up to 75mm/hr today.

The Council says most rainfall has been in coastal areas, so while coastal streams may be rising, river levels are not reflecting what residents in coastal areas can hear on our roofs.

It is advised that travel should be postponed if possible as there may be surface flooding in places.

For the curious, information on rainfall and rivers is available at the Bay of Plenty Regional Council's website here and weather updates via MetService here.

NZTA isn't reporting any road closures due to the weather at this stage, but of course advises adjusting your driving to the conditions if you do have to drive - increase your following distance, lower your speed, and stay alert.

However, reports are coming in of flooding in both directions for the Waimana Gorge. It is advised that motorists take extra care when travelling through the Gorge due to flooding, possible slips and trees down. Delays are expected.

It is believed that State Highway 2 Waihi to Athenree Gorge has flooding in both directions also. It is advised that motorists take care and expect delays.

MetService has issued a heavy rain warning for Coromandel Peninsula and Western Bay of Plenty, and for eastern Otago, Canterbury south of the Rakaia and for northwest Nelson and Marlborough.

Flooding in Pyes Pa. Photo: Jennifer Sidwell/Facebook.

Flooding on Riverside Dr, Whakatane. Photo: Sarah McQueen/Facebook.

Have you got any weather pictures? Seen any weather damage? Email them to [email protected]