Potentially "pretty nasty" weather is on the way for the southern regions at the start of next week, and MetService is urging residents to batten down the hatches.
MetService meteorologist Mmathapelo Makgabutlane said a moist northwest flow would strengthen over the lower South Island tomorrow and it was possible that northwest gales would become severe from Fiordland to the South Canterbury high country.
On Monday, the strong and moist northwesterly flow was expected to affect the lower South Island ahead of an approaching front, and it was likely the northwest gales would become severe over parts of Fiordland, Southland, Otago and the Canterbury High Country.
It was also likely rainfall accumulations would approach warning criteria over Fiordland and Westland, she said.
On Tuesday, an active front and frontal wave was expected to cross the South Island, bringing further rain with accumulations approaching warning criteria in the Southern Lakes District, Central Otago, Westland, Southland, Clutha, Dunedin and North Otago.
There was also the possibility of severe southwest gales from Clutha to Banks Peninsula, she said.
Ms Makgabutlane said the strong winds and heavy rain had potential to do damage.
"The winds are looking pretty nasty.
"And I think, especially those inland places, they could get quite a bit of rainfall."
She urged people to tie down any loose items and clear spoutings and gutters.
On Wednesday, the weather was expected to be calmer across the southern regions as the front moved away to the east of New Zealand.
