Although MetService's heavy rain warning has been lifted for the Bay Of Plenty, heavy rain is expected to continue in Gisborne and Hawke's Bay.

Heavy rain has eased, and the warning is now lifted for Bay of Plenty says a MetService spokesperson.

'A subtropical low to the northeast of the North Island directs a moist northeasterly flow with an embedded front onto the Island. The low is expected to move southwards and lie to the east of the Island on Thursday.

'The wind-flow over Gisborne and Hawke's Bay should turn south to southeast. Heavy rain is forecast to continue in Gisborne and Hawke's Bay, where the warnings remain in force.”

Significant impacts are likely such as flooding and damage to roads and power lines.

'Note, the Red Heavy Warning for Gisborne continues through to Thursday morning,” says a MetService spokesperson.

People are advised to keep up to date with the latest warnings in case any changes are made or further areas are added.

Heavy Rain Warning - Red
Rain is expected to cause dangerous river conditions and significant flooding in the Gisborne area. Slips and floodwaters are likely to disrupt travel, making some roads impassable and possibly isolating communities.

Area: Gisborne
Valid: 14 hours from 8:00 pm Wednesday to 10:00 am Thursday Forecast: Expect a further 100 to 150 mm of rain to accumulate on top of what has already fallen. Peak rates of 20 to 30mm/h, but 30 to 45mm/h in localised downpours or possible thunderstorms. Note, light to moderate rain should continue for the rest of Thursday.

Heavy Rain Warning - Orange
Heavy rain may cause streams and rivers to rise rapidly in Hawke's Bay. Surface flooding and slips are also possible and driving conditions may be hazardous.

Area: Hawke's Bay
Valid: 22 hours from 8:00 pm Wednesday to 6:00 pm Thursday Forecast: Expect a further 100 to 160 mm of rain to accumulate from Napier northwards, but 60 to 90mm further south, on top of what has already fallen.Peak rates of 15 to 25 mm/h in the north until midday Thursday.