Thunderstorm and strong wind watch for region

Rotorua residents can expect squally thunderstorms and possible hail today as bad weather moves its way up the country.

Weatherwatch head weather analyst Philip Duncan said isolated squally thunderstorms could impact the city this afternoon and into tonight.

"The worst will be tonight and into tomorrow. There is potential for hail to fall also."

MetService said there was a strong wind watch for the Bay of Plenty and Taupo with gusts of more than 110km/h and localised damaging tornadoes possible.

Wind gusts of this strength can cause some structural damage, including trees and power lines, and may make driving hazardous. If any tornados occur they will only affect very localised areas.

Severe Thunderstorm Watch issued https://t.co/HmaukvQqdI pic.twitter.com/pGQVWoAONl

— Severe Weather Info (@MetServiceWARN) April 9, 2018

A heavy rain watch is also in place for the eastern ranges of the Bay of Plenty.

Meanwhile two tornadoes have torn through National Park Village and the Taranaki town of Rahotu, tearing up trees and lifting roofs.

The second twister struck National Park, near Mt Ruapehu, about 9.15am and knocked down trees and scattered debris in its path.

A snowfall warning is in place for the Desert Rd with 10-15cm expected to fall about the summit with lesser amounts to 700m.

Weather

#WATCH: Check out NIWA's latest high-resolution rain and lightning model forecast. The risk is expected to move across the North Island later this morning into the afternoon.

Posted by Rotorua Daily Post on Monday, 9 April 2018

The New Zealand Transport Agency is advising people travelling through the Central North Island to take extra care on the roads and be prepared for winter-like conditions over the next 24 hours.

Transport Agency journey manager Liam Ryan said road users should take extra care while travelling, as snow and ice can make the road more hazardous especially in shaded areas and on bridge decks.

"Road users must drive to the conditions and plan ahead in case of any delays. It's a good idea to pack extra food, warm clothing and blankets in case of emergencies or road closures," he said.

"If weather conditions make driving too hazardous, some roads may close for a time. So it's important before you set off to refer to the NZTA webpage and online updates, especially those driving through the Central Plateau."