MetService has issued multiple orange warnings and watches for parts of the South Island. File photo. Photo:
Heavy rain and severe northwest gales are set to hit large parts of the South Island, with MetService issuing multiple orange warnings and watches as an active front is set to move across the country.
The national forecaster said a strong, moist northerly flow will bring intense rainfall and damaging winds, before conditions turn showery with westerlies later on Monday.
Orange heavy rain warnings are in force for several regions, including the Westland ranges, where between 160 and 200 millimetres of rain is forecast from 9am Monday until 3am Tuesday. Peak rainfall rates of 20mm to 30mm an hour are expected.
In Fiordland, about and north of Doubtful Sound, MetService is warning of 100mm to 150mm of rain between 6am and 4pm Monday, while the headwaters of Canterbury lakes and rivers south of Arthur's Pass could see up to 180mm near the main divide from 3pm Monday until 3am Tuesday.
The headwaters of Otago lakes and rivers are also under an orange warning, with 120mm to 160mm of rain expected during the day.
MetService warns streams and rivers may rise rapidly, with surface flooding, slips and difficult driving conditions possible. People in affected areas are advised to clear drains and gutters, avoid low-lying areas and take care on the roads.
Strong wind warnings are also in place, with Fiordland facing severe gale-force north to northwest winds gusting up to 120km/h from 4am until 2pm Monday.
Similar conditions are expected in the Canterbury High Country from 9am Monday, with damaging winds likely until 3am Tuesday.
Damage to trees, powerlines and unsecured structures is possible, with the strong winds making driving hazardous, particularly for high-sided vehicles and motorcycles.
A yellow strong wind watch also covers Queenstown Lakes, Central Otago and inland parts of Southland, Clutha and Dunedin, throughout Monday, where winds may approach severe gale strength in exposed areas.
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