It’s perhaps not the worst news but the gloomy, drizzly conditions affecting coastal Canterbury, especially around Christchurch, are likely to continue for another 2 or 3 days yet.

Some heavier rain is expected tomorrow afternoon or evening, which may be the first “real” rain of the week however it’s not expected to be enough to cause any normal complications.

The rain may, however, be the first test of leaks and electrical problems – and tests of drains and storm water systems, even if it is less than 20mm overall.

There is good news too – sunnier skies and higher temperatures are forecast from Saturday through until Tuesday.  Highs will be in the late teens in Christchurch and possibly low 20s inland near Darfield.

WeatherWatch.co.nz there is a chance windy weather near the epicentre of the quake could fell trees that have been destabilised by the quakes on Saturday and again in the middle of next week.