An active front is expected to bring rough weather for many across the country today, with the South Island and lower North Island particularly affected.
The front will move up the South Island and into the centre of the country, MetService said, “bringing a burst of heavy rain to western areas and west to northwest gales to southern and eastern parts”.
“Warnings and watches for severe gales and heavy rain are in force.”
Orange strong wind warnings were in place for Marlborough, Wellington, Wairarapa and Tararua District from midday to 11pm tonight and for Canterbury High Country from 9am to 5pm today.
Severe gales of up to 120 km/h in exposed places were forecast for the lower North and upper South, while the forecaster said “damaging gusts” of up to 130 km/h were possible in exposed parts of Canterbury High Country during the warning period.
“Damage to trees, powerlines, and unsecured structures possible. Driving may be difficult, especially for high-sided vehicles and motorcycles,” MetService said.
“Prepare your property by securing items that can be picked up by strong winds. Drive cautiously.”
A yellow heavy rain watch was issued for Fiordland from 9am to 1pm today.
Yellow strong wind watches were issued for Hawke’s Bay south of Hastings from 1pm today to 3am tomorrow; North Otago, the Canterbury Plains, also Christchurch and Banks Peninsula from 9am to 5pm today; and coastal Dunedin, coastal Clutha and coastal Southland, also Stewart Island from 9am today to 4am tomorrow.
“People are advised to stay up to date with the latest forecasts,” MetService said.
