A weak frontal boundary will drift across the South Island today, kicking up precipitation.  Showers are expected about coastal sections of Southland and Otago.  More widespread rain is expected for Fiordland and the West Coast.  Nelson could see some precipitation late this afternoon and this evening.

Heavy rain is possible along the western sections of the South Island south of Hokitika.  Government forecaster MetService has warnings for heavy rain in effect for Fiordland and the Westland Ranges south of Whataroa.  Rainfall totals of 70 to 90mm are expected with the heaviest falls occurring this afternoon.  Rainfall intensities could reach 15 to 20mm/hr.

There is also a chance for heavy rain for the headwaters of the Otago and Canterbury lakes and rivers south of the Rangitata River.  However, if heavy rain does develop it should be brief.  MetService says it is worth keeping an eye on, but rainfall isn’t expected to reach warning criteria.

Homepage image/ Zelda Wynn

By WeatherWatch.co.nz Analyst Howard Joseph