Heavy rain forecast for South Island

File photo / Dean Purcell

MetService has issued a severe weather warning for much of the South Island, with heavy rain forecast for the West Coast, western Nelson, and the headwaters of Otago and Canterbury.

A front approaching from the Tasman Sea is expected to cross Fiordland this evening and much of Westland tomorrow.

MetService said the front would bring heavy rain to the West Coast and Nelson with spillover into Otago and Canterbury.

Up to 250mm of rain is forecast near the ranges as far north as Otira from this morning until tomorrow evening, with lighter rain expected on Thursday.

MetService warned 150 to 180mm of rain could fall near the ranges in northern Westland, Buller and western Nelson from early tomorrow morning through to Thursday afternoon.

In Fiordland rainfall amounts may not quite reach warning criteria and a watch continues.

People in all these areas are advised that streams and rivers are likely to rise quickly. There could be slips in hilly areas and surface flooding on some roads.

Heavy rain is also forecast for the Richmond Range, Marlborough Sounds, Tararua Ranges and Mt Taranaki from late tomorrow until early Friday.

Metservice advised people in these areas to keep up to date with the latest forecasts and plan accordingly as streams and rivers are likely to rise quickly. There could be slips in hilly areas and surface flooding on some roads.

- NZHERALD STAFF