Hawke's Bay warned to expect heavy rain

Hawke's Bay people are being urged to be prepared with heavy rain expected to hit the region later today.

MetService has issued a heavy rain warning for the 24 hours from 8pm tonight. It expects 140 to 200mm of rain in the region, especially in the ranges. Between 15 to 25mm is expected per hour.

Hawke's Bay Civil Defence Emergency Management Group Manager Ian Macdonald says people can expect surface flooding, slips and possible power outages.

He's urging people to take care on the roads and get prepared, ensuring drains and gutters are clear, and stock are moved from low lying areas.

"We're not expecting any significant flooding in our major rivers, but there could be some localised flooding," Macdonald said.

Hawke's Bay Civil Defence Emergency Management is continuing to monitor the situation.

People can keep up to date on the Hawke's Bay Emergency Facebook Page and website and Hawke's Bay Today.