The MetService has issued an Orange heavy rain warning for the headwaters of Lake Wānaka and Lake Hāwea from midnight tonight (November 17) until 2pm Tuesday.

A front over the Tasman Sea is moving towards New Zealand. It is expected to bring strong winds and heavy rain overnight.

Rainfall totals are expected to reach 100 to 140mm near the Divide and 70 to 100mm within 15km east. The freezing level is sitting high at 2800 metres.

Although the risk of upgrading to a Red Warning is low, the impacts may still be significant.

Streams and rivers may rise, and residents are warned to prepare for possible surface flooding, and difficult driving conditions.

Closer to home, MetService shows the winds are on the way up, expect them to strengthen this afternoon and into tomorrow. Then we’re back to sunshine by Wednesday.

Keep up to date with The Central App news throughout the day as conditions change, and if traveling check the Roads report before you leave home.