Holidaymakers are warned to brace for heavy rain, strong winds and even snow, as a “significant storm” is forecast to sweep across much of the country on Labour Day.
MetService predicts a “burst of severe weather” could disrupt plans for the three-day weekend, with watches already in place for severe northwest gales and heavy rain across several regions.
“Very active fronts will bring another significant burst of severe weather to the country on Monday,” MetService said, urging people to stay up to date, as further warnings are likely to be issued.
Heavy rain for West Coast and Canterbury headwaters
A Heavy Rain Watch is in force from Westland, Grey, Buller, Nelson and northwest Marlborough through to Tasman, west of Motueka, where rain is expected to intensify from 7am-10pm on Monday.
MetService said rainfall totals may reach warning levels, raising the risk of rapidly rising rivers and streams, surface flooding, slips and hazardous driving conditions.
A similar watch is in place for the headwaters of the Canterbury lakes and rivers, where heavy rain is forecast from 7am-7pm Monday, particularly within 15km east of the main divide.
Residents are urged to clear drains and gutters, and avoid low-lying areas, with a high chance that both rain watches will be upgraded to full warnings.
Gales expected for lower North Island and upper South Island
Strong winds could cause widespread disruption, especially for those driving home from long weekend getaways.
A Strong Wind Watch covers Wairarapa and the Tararua District from 1pm Sunday to 6am Monday, with another burst of damaging winds possible later on Monday.
Wellington is also expected to bear the brunt of the gale-force winds, with MetService warning of northwest gusts strong enough to damage trees, powerlines and unsecured structures from 12pm Monday through to 1am Tuesday.
Driving could be especially difficult for motorcyclists and high-sided vehicles, the forecaster said.
A further watch has been issued for the Canterbury High Country north of Mount Cook, and Marlborough south of Cape Campbell, where northwest winds may approach severe gale conditions from 6pm Sunday through to 6am Monday.
South Island snow and ongoing updates
MetService said the storm fronts could also bring heavy snow to parts of the South Island on Monday, although details would be confirmed closer to the time.
The forecaster urged travellers to plan ahead and keep up to date with the latest warnings, which were likely to change.
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