Heavy rain and wind is coming to New Zealand, with meteorologists forecasting a front to move northwards.
A moist northwesterly flow is covering southern New Zealand ahead of the front, which MetService says should move northwards over Fiordland in the South Island on Thursday evening.
A heavy rain watch will be in place for the south-western region from 11pm Wednesday to 11pm Thursday. MetService is warning of rain with some heavy falls, and possible thunderstorms.
"Rainfall amounts may approach warning criteria," MetService says.
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"People are advised to keep up to date with forecasts in case this watch is upgraded to a full warning."
Meanwhile, WeatherWatch warns an "enormous" area of low pressure is forming near New Zealand in the next few days, bringing rain and strong westerly winds.
"Latest data continues to support a very cold start to next week in the south, which is problematic due to lambing and calving now underway or starting," WeatherWatch said in a statement.
"Sea level snow is possible but even if not, low-level snow to 100 or 200m looks likely along with sub-zero wind chills."
WeatherWatch says the North Island should prepare for wind and possible gales.
Strong winds are forecast for Auckland on Friday and Sunday, and Hamilton on Sunday.
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