Auckland experiences traffic delays due to crash

A crash on State Highway 1 in Auckland is causing delays during the morning rush hour. The right southbound lane is blocked due to the accident. Wet weather and the risk of thunderstorms are affecting the North Island today. A trough of low pressure is responsible for the storms. MetService reports that pockets of heavy rain have already fallen in some areas. Heavy rain is also expected in Gisborne and Hawke’s Bay on Thursday. A yellow rain watch has been issued for these regions. Auckland can expect more rain this afternoon and evening. There is a low risk of thunderstorms in Auckland and nearby areas like the Coromandel Peninsula and Bay of Plenty later today.