A severe thunderstorm warning has been issued for Aucklanders this afternoon, with heavy rain expected to lash parts of the city. 

The warning is for Auckland City and Franklin areas, and is expected to last until 3.45pm, MetService warns. 

The thunderstorms are expected to be accompanied by heavy rain and “possible tornadoes”. 

The thunderstorms are moving eastward and are expected to lie near Maraetai, Clevedon, Whitford and Brookby at 3.15pm, before reaching near Maraetai, Clevedon and Kawakawa Bay at 3.45. 

Meanwhile, a severe thunderstorm watch remains in place for Coromandel Peninsula. 

“Very heavy rain can cause surface and/or flash flooding about streams, gullies and urban areas, and make driving conditions extremely hazardous.” 

As storms approach, people are advised to take shelter indoors, move cars under cover, secure any loose objects and check their drains are clear. 

During and after a storm, people should beware of fallen trees and power lines and avoid streams and drains in case of flash flooding, the National Emergency Management Agency. 

More to come