The South Island and lower North Island are set to be hit by windy weather as a pair of fronts sweep in, bringing heavy rain, gales and possible thunderstorms to kick off the week.
A strong wind watch was issued for Wellington and Wairarapa, lasting 12 hours from noon to midnight tomorrow.
“Northwest winds may approach severe gale in exposed places,” MetService said.
The forecaster said there was a “moderate chance” of the watch being upgraded to a warning.
The forecaster said a second front will move up the South Island tomorrow, bringing heavy rain to western areas and the risk of severe gales.
On X, MetService wrote: “It’s a wet morning for parts of the North Island, with a chance of thunderstorms in some areas today.
“Showers are expected in the western South Island, with one or two elsewhere. Canterbury and Otago may see the odd thunderstorm with hail this afternoon.”
The Westland District ranges are under a heavy rain watch, lasting for nine hours between 8am and 5pm tomorrow.
Heavy rain watches were also issued for the headwaters of the Canterbury lakes and rivers from about Arthur’s Pass southwards from 9am to 6pm tomorrow, and for the headwaters of the Otago lakes and rivers from 6am to 3pm tomorrow.
“Streams and rivers may rise rapidly. Surface flooding, slips, and difficult driving conditions possible.”
MetService urged residents to clear their drains and gutters to prepare for rain. It also asked people to “avoid low-lying areas and drive cautiously”.
A strong wind watch is in place for the Canterbury High Country from 9am until 5pm tomorrow.
“Northwest winds may approach severe gale in exposed places,” Metservice said.
A strong wind watch is also in place for Marlborough and the Kaikoura District between noon and 9pm tomorrow.
Coastal areas of Southland and Clutha, including Stewart Island, are also under a strong wind watch, lasting from 9pm tomorrow to midday Wednesday.
“West to northwest winds may approach severe gale in exposed places,” MetService said.
“Winds expected to turn southwest during Wednesday morning. Moderate chance of upgrading to a warning.”