Weather Warning: Clutha, Southland, Stewart Island & Fiordland lakes

Heavy rain in the west and gale northwesterlies in the east of southern and central New Zealand.
An active front is forecast to move north across southern and central New Zealand during today (Tuesday) and Wednesday, bringing periods of heavy rain to the west and gale northwesterlies in the east.

Warnings and Watches for heavy rain and severe gale northwesterlies are in force for many places.

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.

Rain moves into Fiordland this morning then gradually pushes northwards during the day with heavy falls, reaching into North Westland overnight. Later this evening rain pushes into Southland then a few scattered falls reach Otago overnight.

Area: Fiordland north of Breaksea Sound
Valid: 18 hours from 9:00am Tuesday to 3:00am Wednesday
Forecast: Expect 140 to 200mm to accumulate. Peak intensities of 15 to 25mm/h.

Strong Wind Watch

Area: Clutha, Southland, Stewart Island and Fiordland lakes
Valid: 16 hours from 9:00am Tuesday to 1:00am Wednesday
Forecast: Northwest winds may approach severe gale in exposed places at times.