The heaviest falls of rain across Hawke's Bay are expected to come through late this afternoon and into the evening, although the worst of it will be in the high country and ranges.
Hawke's Bay Civil Defence said the weather event was one we could expect to see once every five years and had the potential to cause problems in some areas.
A spokesperson said they were expecting to see most rain around Central Hawke's Bay, Nuhaka and Mahia, where there is likely to be localised surface flooding.
"Rivers and streams can rise quickly and it is possible there will be some slips, roading and power issues."Metservice meteorologist Peter Little said Napier and Hastings would still get belts of rain but it was likely to be of a more steady nature.
"There could be some heavy periods at various times though."