Heavy rain watch issued for Wairoa, northern Hawke's Bay

Wairoa and northern Hawke's Bay are expecting heavy rain starting Thursday morning at 8 AM. The MetService has issued a heavy rain watch that will last for 16 hours. Meteorologist Mmathapelo Makgabutlane warns that a low-pressure system will bring significant rainfall to the area. She notes that the region's soils are already quite wet, which could amplify the effects of the rain. While other parts of the North Island face drought conditions, Wairoa and northern Hawke's Bay will experience a wet end to the week. The rain is expected to develop as the low-pressure system moves in, causing cloudy and rainy weather conditions. Residents are advised to prepare for possible impacts from the heavy rain. The approaching onshore flow will bring increased moisture, leading to this forecasted rainfall.