A heavy rain watch is in force for the Bay of Plenty.

The MetService is forecasting a series of active fronts embedded in disturbed westerlies to affect New Zealand until Wednesday.

'These fronts are expected to bring periods of heavy rain and strong winds to several places,” says a statement from the weather organisation.

'People are advised to stay up to date with the latest forecasts.”

In Tauranga today, showers are expected from late this afternoon.

Light winds are forecast, but these are expected to turn northwesterly in the afternoon.

Tomorrow is looking a bit wetter, with showers turning to rain in the afternoon.

Image: MetService.

It is at this time that the severe weather watch is in force for.

For 14 hours from 4pm Tuesday to 6am Wednesday, the MetService is forecasting periods of heavy rain about the ranges of Bay of Plenty.

'Rainfall accumulations may approach warning criteria.”