The MetService has issued severe thunderstorm watches for Hawke’s Bay and the Canterbury Plains. Scattered thunderstorms are expected to develop over Hawke’s Bay and the Canterbury Plains this afternoon and evening, and from 3pm a few storms could be severe. ⛈ The first is for Hawkes Bay, from 4pm – 9pm, and the second is for parts of the Canterbury Plains and Canterbury High Country, from 3pm to 8pm.