The ridge of high pressure that should give us a lovely holiday weekend will be responsible for keeping parts of the South Island under a threat of showers for today and tonight.

The southwest flow that is developing ahead of the incoming ridge will help to pop a few showers about Southland, Otago and the West Coast.  The best chance for seeing precipitation in these areas will be late this afternoon and this evening.  However, there are small chances for showers this morning and early this afternoon as well.

The rest of the country should see a settle day.  After a rather chilly start, temperatures will make a run for the middle teens for afternoon highs in most areas.  Some 10-13 degree highs are expected in areas that stay cloudy.

By WeatherWatch Analyst Howard Joseph