Both islands are set to be affected by severe weather as a pair of fronts sweep in, bringing heavy rain, gales and possible thunderstorms to kick off the week.
MetService said that the North Island will be first up, with a front expected to bring a burst of heavy rain and possible thunderstorms to parts of the North Island on Monday.
A heavy rain watch has been issued for the Waikato and Waitomo area from 1am this morning where rainfall rates could reach up to 25mm an hour. There is a moderate chance this watch could be upgraded to a warning.
The forecaster said a second front will move up the South Island on Tuesday, bringing heavy rain to western areas and the risk of severe gales.
Heavy rain watches are in place for the Westland District ranges, the headwaters of the Canterbury lakes and rivers south of Arthur’s Pass, as well as the headwaters of the Otago lakes and rivers.
Residents can expect periods of heavy rain and rainfall amounts in some areas within 15km of the main divide could potentially near warning criteria.
A strong wind watch is in place for the Canterbury High Country from 9am until 7pm on Tuesday.
“Northwest winds may approach severe gale in exposed places,” Metservice said.
