Heavy rain and severe gales have been forecast for central and southern parts of the country tomorrow, after wild weather over the weekend saw trees and powerlines downed in Canterbury, sparking vegetation fires.
It comes as a strong westerly flow over central New Zealand eases overnight tonight, MetService said this evening. A complex trough of low pressure, preceded by a strong northwest flow, is expected to move onto the South Island from the Tasman Sea late tomorrow night, before moving northwards onto central New Zealand on Tuesday.
An orange heavy rain warning is in place for Tasman west of Motueka, Nelson Lakes, and the Buller and Grey Districts between 1am and 11pm on Tuesday; and Westland south of Otira from 9am tomorrow to 9am Tuesday.
A heavy rain watch is in place for the headwaters of the Canterbury lakes and rivers south of Arthur's Pass from 1pm tomorrow to 9am on Tuesday.
An orange strong wind warning is in place for Tararua District and Wairarapa about and north of Carterton between 8pm tonight and 2am tomorrow. Severe gale west to northwesterlies could reach 120 km/h in exposed places.
A strong wind watch, meanwhile, has been issued for Wairarapa south of Carterton, Wellington and Marlborough from 1am to 1pm on Tuesday; and the Canterbury High Country from 1pm tomorrow to 1am on Tuesday.
"Heavy rain may cause streams and rivers to rise rapidly. Surface flooding and slips are also possible and driving conditions may be hazardous," MetService warned.
"Strong wind gusts could damage trees, powerlines and unsecured structures. Driving may be hazardous, especially for high-sided vehicles and motorcycles."
The latest forecasts and updates on the weather can be found on the MetService website.
SHARE ME