Meteorological warning: heavy rain to name parts of the northern and south islands

Photo: Methservice

MethService has issued strong orange rain warnings for Tasman, Marlborough, Buller and Westland districts, along with Mount Taranaki, on the North Island.

The heaviest falls were expected in Tasman, northwest of Motueka, with 350 to 450 millimeters of rain forecast, possibly more about the lanes and 150 to 250 mm elsewhere.

Peak rates of 25 to 35 mm/h expected on the late -Thursday morning lanes and there was a moderate chance of being updated for a red warning.

Forte rain was also scheduled for Marlborough district, with 200 to 300 mm rain forecast on Richmond and Bryant ranges and 100 to 150 mm elsewhere.

Peak rates of 20 to 30 mm/h expected, especially on the Richmond and Bryant ranges and there was a low chance that it will be updated to a red warning.

MethService says that streams and rivers can rise quickly. Surface floods, landslides and difficult driving conditions are possible.

People were advised to clean drains and gutters to prepare for heavy rain. Avoid low areas and drive with caution.

More to come …