Severe thunderstorms and torrential rain are on their way to Tokoroa, Ngaroma, Waipapa, Lichfield and Hodderville, according to Met Service.

These severe thunderstorms are moving towards the southeast, and are expected to lie near Tokoroa, Whakamaru, Mangakino, Kinleith and the hills and ranges east of Tokoroa at 05:07 pm and near Whakamaru, Mokai, Atiamuri and Guthrie at 05:37 pm.

The Met Service website says torrential rain can cause surface and/or flash flooding about streams, gullies and urban areas, and make driving conditions extremely hazardous.

A Severe Thunderstorm Watch remains in force for Coromandel Peninsula, Waikato, Waitomo, Taumaranui, Bay of Plenty, Rotorua, Taupo, Gisbourne, Hawkes Bay, Taihape and Auckland.

The National Emergency Management Agency advises that as storms approach you should take shelter, preferably indoors away from windows, avoid sheltering under trees, get back to land, if outdoors on the water; and move cars under cover or away from trees.

You should also secure any loose objects around your property; check that drains and gutters are clear; be ready to slow down or stop, if driving.

During and after the storm, you should also: beware of fallen trees and power lines; and avoid streams and drains as you may be swept away in flash flooding.