MetService has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Watch for Auckland and Northland this afternoon until about 7pm, as a low crosses the northern North Island.

Thunderstorms are expected, and there is a chance some will become severe in Auckland and the east and south of Northland south of Kerikeri, with localised downpours of 25 to 40mm per hour before easing early evening.

For the Hibiscus Coast, watch how quickly the rain builds.

That intensity can cause surface or flash flooding in low-lying areas, and may trigger slips.

Driving could turn hazardous in heavy rain, with surface flooding and poor visibility. Conditions can change fast this afternoon.

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