Winds have subsided over parts of the south but rain totals are still meeting warning criteria according to Govt forecaster MetService.

Heavy rain for the ranges of Westland and Buller, and the Canterbury headwaters

A front is moving slowly northwards over Westland today, then onto the lower North Island tomorrow. This front is preceded by moist northerlies, bringing heavy rain to the Southern Alps and Canterbury headwaters, where a further 80mm of rain is possible during today. In addtiion, the ranges of northern Westland and Buller may receive 100mm of rain later today and early Tuesday morning.

People in these areas are advised rivers and streams may rise rapidly, slips and surface flooding are possible.

HEAVY RAIN WARNING
AREA/S AFFECTED
Westland between Haast and Otira
FORECAST
Up until to 9pm Monday, expect a further 50 to 80mm of rain in the ranges on top of what has already fallen. Peak intensities of 10 to 15mm/hr. Expect rain to ease south of Harihari this afternoon.

FREEZING LEVEL: About 2000 metres.

AREA/S AFFECTED
The headwaters of the main Canterbury lakes and rivers.
FORECAST
Up until 9pm tonight, expect a further 40 to 70mm of rain near the Divide, and over 30mm within 50km east of the Divide. Expect rain to ease south of the Rakaia River this afternoon.

FREEZING LEVEL: 1800 metres in the north, lowering to 1000 metres in the south.

AREA/S AFFECTED
The ranges of Westland and Buller, north of Otira
FORECAST
In the 15 hours from 4pm Monday to 7am Tuesday, expect 70 to 100mm of rain. Peak intensities of 10 to 15mm/hr early Tuesday morning.

FREEZING LEVEL: About 2000 metres.