Severe thunderstorm warning - 27 February 2026
Area: South Waikato and Rotorua
***Update 9.40pm, Friday 27 February
The Severe Thunderstorm Warning RED has been lifted. A Thunderstorm watch remains in place.
*** Forecast: MetService weather radar detected severe thunderstorms near ROTORUA, WAIKITE VALLEY, WAIREKA, GUTHRIE and THE HILLS AND RANGES EAST OF TOKOROA.
Very heavy rain can cause surface and/or flash flooding about streams, gullies and urban areas, and make driving conditions extremely hazardous.
Very heavy rain can cause surface and/or flash flooding about streams, gullies and urban areas, and make driving conditions extremely hazardous.
If thunderstorms or flooding occur:
- Put safety first. Don’t take chances and act quickly if you see rising water.
- Flooding can happen fast. If you notice water rising, don’t wait for official warnings – move to higher ground and stay away from floodwater.
- Never walk, swim, or drive through floodwater. Many flood deaths happen when people try to drive through water.
- Assume floodwater is contaminated with run‑off, chemicals, or sewage. Avoid contact where possible, and wash hands, clothing, and property if contact occurs.
- Stay informed
- Listen to the official Civil Defence broadcaster - rnz.co.nz/listen/amfm
- Follow Metservice for weather updates - metservice.com