Low to rapidly deepen today
A low rapidly deepens over the Tasman Sea today, then moves slowly eastwards across the South Island from Monday. An associated front is expected to move across the South Island and North Island during Monday and early Tuesday, preceded by strong to gale northerlies.
The heaviest rain is forecast on Monday for Westland, the ranges of northwest Nelson, and the Richmond and Bryant Ranges. A period of heavy rain is also likely for the eastern ranges of Bay of Plenty from Monday afternoon through to Tuesday morning. Rainfall amounts in these areas may approach warning levels.
As the low moves across the South Island, cold southeasterly rain is expected in Canterbury during Monday. This rain should turn to snow above about 400 metres for a time Monday morning with brief heavy falls. A heavy snow advisory for farmers has been issued for the Canterbury High Country. This has the potential to disrupt transport and cause stress in livestock.
Finally, as the front moves onto the North Island on Monday, it is preceded by a period of strong northerlies. This Watch is for the possibility of severe gale gusts Monday morning and afternoon in southern Taranaki, inland Wanganui and Taihape.
People are advised to keep up to date with the latest forecasts, in case warnings becomes necessary.
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