Weather
- MetService issued warnings for heavy rain and strong winds across Southland, Fiordland, and Stewart Island.
- Up to 100mm of rain and wind gusts reaching 120km/h are forecast through late Friday into Saturday.
- Locals are urged to prepare for flooding, slips, and possible damage to trees and powerlines.
MetService has issued Orange Heavy Rain and Strong Wind Warnings for parts of the South Island as a strong weather front moves north this weekend. The system, preceded by powerful northwesterly winds, is expected to bring severe conditions between late Friday and early Sunday.
"Warnings and Watches are in force for heavy rain and severe gales," MetService stated. The public is encouraged to "stay up to date with the latest forecasts" as the situation develops.
Heavy Rain Warning – Orange
For Fiordland, the rain warning is in effect from 10:00pm Friday to
7:00am Saturday. Forecasters expect 80 to 100mm of rain, with peak rates of 20 to 30mm per hour overnight. While there is only a minimal chance of this being upgraded to a Red Warning, the rain could cause streams and rivers to rise quickly, along with possible surface flooding, slips, and hazardous driving conditions.
Residents are advised to clear drains and gutters, avoid low-lying areas, and drive cautiously as the heavy rain moves through.
Strong Wind Warning – Orange
A second warning covers Southland, Fiordland, and Stewart Island from 4:00pm Friday to 6:00am Saturday. Severe gale northerlies are expected, with gusts reaching 120km/h in exposed places, particularly between the Fiordland lakes and Winton.
While this warning also has a minimal chance of being upgraded to Red, MetService warns of possible damage to trees, powerlines, and unsecured structures, as well as challenging driving conditions, especially for high-sided vehicles and motorcycles.
Locals are reminded to secure loose items and prepare their properties for strong winds.