Wet, blustery start to week for large parts of the South Island

It's set to be a wet and blustery start to the week for parts of the South Island with multiple orange heavy rain and strong wind warnings and watches issued for Monday.

MetService said an active front preceded by strong moist northerlies moves across the South Island on Monday followed by showery westerlies.

Orange heavy rain warnings were in force for several areas, including the Westland Ranges which could see 160–200mm of rain from morning through early Tuesday, while Fiordland may get up to 150mm during the day. Canterbury and Otago headwaters are also in line for significant falls, with up to 180mm near the main divide.

Streams and rivers may rise quickly, causing surface flooding and slips. Drivers are urged to take care and avoid low-lying areas.

Severe gales were forecast for Fiordland and the Canterbury High Country, with gusts up to 120km/h.

A strong wind watch covered Queenstown Lakes, Central Otago, inland Southland, Clutha and Dunedin.

MetService warned of possible damage to trees and powerlines, and hazardous driving conditions, especially for high-sided vehicles.

Heavy Rain Warning – Orange

Ranges of the Westland District – 18 hours from 9am Monday until 3am Tuesday.

Headwaters of Canterbury Lakes and Rivers (south of Arthur’s Pass) – 12 hours from 3pm Monday until 3am Tuesday.

Headwaters of Otago Lakes and Rivers – 9 hours from 10am until 7pm Monday.

Fiordland (north of Doubtful Sound) – 10 hours from 6am until 4pm Monday.

Strong Wind Warning – Orange

Canterbury High Country – 18 hours from 9am Monday until 3am Tuesday.

Fiordland – 10 hours from 4am until 2pm Monday.

Strong Wind Watch

Queenstown Lakes, Central Otago, inland Southland, Clutha and Dunedin – 10 hours from 6am until 4pm Monday.