Storm headed for Christchurch

File photo / Supplied.

Weary Canterbury residents struggling to cope with this morning's devastating earthquake will also have to cope with a storm, forecasters say.

The 7.1 magnitude quake has left many homes exposed to the elements, which are expected to take a turn for the worse with gales and heavy rain forecast for tomorrow afternoon.

WeatherWatch.co.nz said strong winds would increase during the day, with severe gales gusting to 130km/h possible later in the day.

MetService is also watching the storm, issuing a severe gale warning for the city predicting winds averaging 65km/h (gale force) with gusts to 130km/h.

"Winds of that speed can be damaging and with many buildings extensively damaged it could cause a major headache for emergency services," a spokesman said.

- NZPA