A severe thunderstorm watch is being issued for the Bay of Plenty today.

Scattered thunderstorms are expected about central parts of the North Island this afternoon and evening, bringing heavy rain, says a MetService spokesperson.

The watch is in place for Auckland, Waikato, Waitomo, Taumarunui, Bay of Plenty, Taupo, Gisborne, Hawke's Bay, Taranaki, Taihape, Wanganui, Manawatu, Tararua and Wairarapa.

'Between 2pm and 10pm, there is a risk of severe thunderstorms producing localised downpours of 25-40 mm/h.

'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.

'Driving conditions will also be hazardous with surface flooding and poor visibility in heavy rain.”

A severe thunderstorm watch means conditions are favourable for severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area.

'People in these areas should be on the lookout for threatening weather conditions and monitor for possible severe thunderstorm warnings,” says a MetService spokesperson.

Image: MetService.