Heavy rain due Monday afternoon

MetService issued a severe weather alert today forecasting heavy rain for inland parts of Marlborough and north Canterbury from Monday afternoon through Tuesday evening.

This orange warning extends north of Lake Sumner but excludes Marlborough Sounds. The timeframe is 4pm on Monday until 6pm on Tuesday, with a moderate chance of an upgrade to a red warming.

MetService predicts 150-200mm of rain about the ranges, with 10-20mm/hr as peak rates on Monday night, and 60-90 mm nearer the coast.

"Note, lesser amounts of rain are expected to persist into Tuesday evening and through Wednesday, which could make for a significant amount of rain for the region," the advisory says. "Clear your drains and gutters to prepare for heavy rain. Avoid low-lying areas and drive cautiously."

Check Weather Warnings & Watches | MetService for updates.