Whangarei Storm April 15 - 2014

WeatherWatch.co.nz says the centre of the storm hammering parts of the North Island tonight is now brushing Whangarei - and the winds are getting stronger. Northland could expect 80mm to 100mm of rain by this afternoon.

"The strongest winds are currently wrapped around the centre of this storm, which is tracking to the south west from the north east" says head weather analyst Philip Duncan. "We've had reports of power cuts, wind damage and some frightening wind gusts across Whangarei and Kamo and right across to western Northland this evening". "The eye of the storm, if you like, will cross parts of Northland, south of Whangarei, in the next couple of hours".

Wind may increase for a time in Whangarei before likely easing later this evening. A taste of the lashing rain forecast to hit the North Island today from tropical cyclone Lusi was felt last night in Northland.

"I know there'll be a fair number of farmers in Waikato and Northland who'll dance a jig at the first drops of rain," said Federated Farmers adverse events spokeswoman, Katie Milne.

"Some on the North Island's west coast haven't seen decent rain since last November."

Power lines fell into a paddock in Kaeo, and strong winds toppled a tree across a road in Parahaki, north of Whangarei. Rain struck northern parts of the country and winds strengthened.