Heavy rain for the west and south of the South Island and northwest gales for the south and east. A complex front, preceded by strong and moist northwesterlies, is expected to move onto the South Island from the southwest this afternoon, then move slowly north over the Island during late Sunday and Monday.
This front is expected to bring significant amounts of rain to the West Coast and Alps, with northwest gales about exposed southern and eastern areas.
A heavy rain warning is in force for Fiordland, Westland and the Otago Headwaters, and now includes the Canterbury Headwaters. A heavy rain watch is now in force for Buller, Southland and Otago, excluding North Otago.
In addition, a strong wind warning is in force for the Canterbury High Country, with a Watch for Otago, Southland and Fiordland.
People are advised to keep up to date with the latest forecasts in case these Watches are upgraded to an orange warning, or further areas are added.
Heavy Rain Warning
Heavy rain may cause streams and rivers to rise rapidly. Surface flooding and slips are also possible and driving conditions may be hazardous.
Area: Fiordland north of Resolution Island
Valid: 18 hours from 12:00pm Sunday to 6:00am Monday
Forecast: Expect 90 to 140mm to accumulate, but 150 to 200mm north of Milford Sound. Peak intensities 15 to 25mm/hr with possible thunderstorms north of Milford Sound overnight tonight (Sunday to Monday).
Heavy Rain Watch
Area: Otago, excluding the headwaters and North Otago
Valid: 12 hours from 11:00pm Sunday to 11:00am Monday
Forecast: Period of steady rain, with some heavy falls. Rainfalls amounts may approach warning criteria.
Area: Southland, excluding Stewart Island
Valid: 13 hours from 3:00pm Sunday to 4:00am Monday
Forecast: Period of steady rain, with some heavy falls. Rainfall accumulations could approach warning criteria.
Strong Wind Watch
Area: Otago
Valid: 9 hours from 8:00am to 5:00pm Sunday
Forecast: Northwest winds may approach severe gale in exposed places at times.
Area: Fiordland and Southland, including Stewart Island
Valid: 8 hours from 8:00am to 4:00pm Sunday
Forecast: North to northwest winds may approach severe gale in exposed places at times.