A severe thunderstorm watch is in place for the Bay of Plenty today.

Scattered thunderstorms are expected this afternoon and early evening from Waitomo and Waikato across to Taupo and Bay of Plenty.

'There is a moderate risk of these thunderstorms becoming severe, producing localised downpours of 25 to 40mm/hr and hail with diameter in excess of 2cm,” says the MetService.

'Expect thunderstorm activity to ease at night.

'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.

'Large hail can cause significant damage to crops, orchards, vines, glasshouses and vehicles, as well as make driving conditions hazardous.”

Image: MetService.

This watch affects people in the following weather forecast districts:

Waikato

Waitomo

Taumarunui

Bay of Plenty

Rotorua

Taupo