Severe Thunderstorm Watch in the Upper North Island
A weather alert has been issued for the upper North Island as MetService warns that a line of powerful thunderstorms is tracking across the region. Temperatures are rising nationwide, and with heat building, storm activity is expected to intensify in areas including Auckland and Northland. Forecasters say the risk includes marble-sized hail, damaging winds, and periods of heavy rain capable of causing local flooding.
What This Means for Auckland and Northland
Residents in Auckland and Northland should stay alert as the storm system approaches. Marble-sized hail can pose risks to vehicles, property, and outdoor activities, while heavy rainfall can lead to localized flash flooding in low-lying areas and poor drainage zones. Authorities urge people to secure loose objects, avoid driving through flooded roads, and monitor weather updates as conditions can change rapidly.
Timing and Anticipated Impacts
Forecast models indicate the worst of the activity could occur during the afternoon and early evening hours, with bursts of intense rainfall and hail moving through quickly. While not every area will experience severe weather, the potential for sudden downpours makes it prudent to stay indoors during the storm’s peak and limit travel to essential trips.
Safety Tips for Home and Travel
To minimize risk during marble-sized hail events and severe thunderstorms, consider the following:
- Keep emergency kits ready with a flashlight, first-aid supplies, and water.
- Bring pets indoors and secure outdoor play equipment and loose objects.
- Slow down on roads and maintain extra distance from other vehicles when storm cells are nearby.
- Close windows and stay away from glass doors and skylights during hail activity.
- Follow local authorities and MetService updates for any changes to the severe weather watch or warnings.
What Forecasts Say About the Coming Days
Forecasters expect a continuing pattern of convective storms across the region as heat lingers and atmospheric instability remains high. While the exact timing and location of each storm can vary, the combination of warmth, moisture, and wind shear increases the likelihood of hail-producing thunderstorms across Auckland and Northland. People should plan for possible travel delays and outdoor cancellations.
Why This Happens
Marble-sized hail is typically formed in strong thunderstorm updrafts that suspend and suspend hailstones as they pass through freezing layers of air. When storm cells intensify, the hail can grow quickly and reach significant sizes before melting as it reaches the ground. The current setup — higher temperatures, humid air, and atmospheric instability — is favorable for such thunderstorm development in the upper North Island.
What to Do If You’re Caught in a Storm
If you find yourself outdoors when hail begins, seek shelter indoors away from windows and cars. If you’re driving, pull over safely if visibility deteriorates and hail begins to accumulate on the road. Do not attempt to drive through large hail or flooded streets. After the storm passes, inspect your vehicle and property for damage and report any hazards to local authorities.
