Heavy rain warning for top of the North Island

Heavy rain and flash flooding is expected in parts of the top half of the North Island today. Photo / NZ Herald

Forecasters have warned of the possibility of heavy rain and flash flooding over parts of the top half of the North Island later today.

The MetService said a front supporting heavy showers was expected to move slowly over the upper North Island later in the day and tonight.

Some of the showers could turn to thunder and some may be severe over central and eastern Northland, eastern parts of Auckland and northern parts of the Coromandel Peninsula. Up to 40mm of rain could fall.

Such intense rainfall could cause flash flooding, especially in low-lying areas such as streams, rivers or narrow valleys and may lead to slips.

The MetService also said driving conditions would be hazardous with surface flooding and poor visibility in heavy rain.

The heavy rain could last into early tomorrow.

- NZPA