The MetService has issued a strong wind WATCH for Central Otago.

Heavy rain in the west of the South Island and the Tararua Range and gale northwesterlies in the south and east of the South Island

An active front is expected to move northeast over the South Island today. The front is forecast to bring a period of heavy rain to the west of the South Island including the Otago and Canterbury

headwaters.

In addition, strong wind warnings and watches are in force for southern and eastern parts of the South Island.

People are advised to keep up to date with the latest forecasts in case any changes are made or further areas are added.

Strong Wind WATCH for Central Otago (also the Southern Lakes and the Canterbury High Country):

In the 12 hours from 8:00am to 8:00pm Tuesday, northwest winds may approach severe gale in exposed places at times.

MetService will issue a Severe Weather Watch whenever there is an expectation that conditions may deteriorate to the thresholds specified for the issue of a Severe Weather Warning:

• After the next 24 hours but within 48-72 hours, or
• If there is a high level of uncertainty within the next 24 hours.

MetService will issue a Severe Weather Warning whenever there is an expectation that any of the following weather conditions will occur within the next 24 hours:

• Widespread* rainfall greater than 50mm within 6 hours or 100mm within 24 hours;
• Widespread* snowfall below 1000 metres on the North Island or 500 metres on the South Island with a snow depth of 10cm within 6 hours or 25cm within 24 hours;
• Widespread* severe gales with a minimum mean speed of 90km/h or frequent gusts exceeding 110km/h.

People are advised to keep up to date with Forecasts in case parts of this watch are upgraded to a full warning, or additional areas are added.

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