A severe weather warning has been issued as heavy rain and gales are expected to hit areas across the country.

Heavy rain, possibly between 50 to 90mm, is expected over the Paparoa Range, the ranges of northwest Nelson and on Mt Taranaki until this afternoon.

The MetService said streams and rivers may rise quickly following heavy rain.

Severe north to northwest gales are possible today in eastern Marlborough, the outer Sounds, Wellington and southern Wairarapa.

Gusts of 120km/h are expected in exposed areas until this afternoon.

Winds should then ease, but gain strength again in Wairarapa overnight, where 120km/h gusts are possible until Monday morning.

The MetService said the gusty conditions may make driving hazardous and could damage trees, powerlines, and insecure structures.

Warnings in Fiordland, Westland and Canterbury headwaters are now lifted, but further rain or showers can be expected in the west today and overnight.
 

– Homepage image / Rose Taylor