Weather: Severe thunderstorm warning for Canterbury areas, ‘torrential rain’ possible —MetService

MetService has issued two severe thunderstorm warnings. Photo / MetService

A severe thunderstorm warning has been lifted in the Canterbury area, though Otago

People are being warned to expect severe thunderstorms and torrential rain in the Canterbury areas of Selwyn, Ashburton and Hurunui.

MetService said at 4pm its weather radar detected severe thunderstorms near Methven, Windwhistle and Highbank that are expected to bring torrential rain.

“Torrential rain can cause surface and/or flash flooding about streams, gullies and urban areas, and make driving conditions extremely hazardous,” it warned.

🌩🌩🌩🌩🌩
Two Severe Thunderstorm Warnings issued. pic.twitter.com/yamxR0uzid

— MetService (@MetService) December 25, 2024

The thunderstorms are moving south and expected to lie near Methven, Windwhistle, and Highbank at 4.30pm, reaching Lauriston at 5pm.

A severe thunderstorm watch remains in force for the Canterbury high country, North Otago, Central Otago and Dunedin, MetService said.

Nema’s advice

The National Emergency Management Agency (Nema) advises that as storms approach you should:

• Take shelter, preferably indoors away from windows
• Avoid sheltering under trees, if outside
• Get back to land, if outdoors on the water
• Move cars under cover or away from trees
• Secure any loose objects around your property
• Check that drains and gutters are clear
• Be ready to slow down or stop, if driving.

During and after the storm, you should also:

• Beware of fallen trees and power lines
• Avoid streams and drains as you may be swept away in flash flooding.

Sign up to The Daily H, a free newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.