Severe Weather Warnings and Watches

Issued by MetService at 9:17pm Saturday 4 Jul 2026

Heavy rain, severe gales and snow for parts of the South Island

A strong, cold southeast flow builds over the lower South Island tonight, and persists into Monday.

Heavy rain is likely for low lying parts of Otago and Southland, especially Dunedin and Clutha, with heavy snow expected about the high country. Southeast gales may become severe for parts of western Fiordland from Sunday evening.

People are advised to keep up to date with latest forecasts.

Heavy Rain Warning - Orange

Area: Coastal Otago

Period: 27hrs from 6:00am Sunday 5 Jul 2026 to 9:00am Monday 6 Jul 2026

Forecast: Expect 80 to 120 mm of rain. The heaviest falls are likely from late Sunday afternoon until early Monday morning when intensities of 10 to 15 mm/h are possible. Note, snow level lowering and snow is possible above 200 metres inland, and there is a separate snow warning.
Moderate chance of upgrading to a Red Warning.

Impact: Streams and rivers may rise rapidly. Surface flooding, slips, and difficult driving conditions possible.

Action: Clear your drains and gutters to prepare for heavy rain. Avoid low-lying areas and drive cautiously.

Heavy Snow Warning - Orange

Area: Otago, excluding coastal areas, and northern Southland

Period: 24hrs from 6:00am Sunday 5 Jul 2026 to 6:00am Monday 6 Jul 2026

Forecast: Snow is expected to develop Sunday morning and the level lowers during the day, possibly down to 200 metres in places. Between 400 and 600 metres, 15 to 30 cm of snow is expected, especially south of Queenstown to Middlemarch, but accumulations may exceed 1 metre above 800 metres altitude.
Moderate chance of upgrading to a Red Warning.

Impact: Travel disruption and damage to trees and powerlines possible. Cold conditions may cause stress for livestock.

Action: Prepare for snow, cold temperatures, and possible power outages. If you must travel, drive cautiously, and ensure you have snow chains, sleeping bags, warm clothing, and emergency items.

Heavy Rain Watch - Yellow

Area: Mainland Southland, not including northern Southland above 400 metres

Period: 24hrs from 11:00pm Saturday 4 Jul 2026 to 11:00pm Sunday 5 Jul 2026

Forecast: Periods of heavy rain and accumulations may approach warning criteria. Note, snow level lowering and there is a separate warning for heavy snowfall for northern Southland.
Moderate chance of upgrading to a Warning.

Strong Wind Watch - Yellow

Area: Fiordland north of Doubtful Sound and west of the main divide

Period: 27hrs from 6:00pm Sunday 5 Jul 2026 to 9:00pm Monday 6 Jul 2026

Forecast: Southeast winds may approach severe gale in exposed places.
High chance of upgrading to a Warning.

Impact: Damage to trees, powerlines, and unsecured structures possible. Driving may be difficult, especially for high-sided vehicles and motorcycles.

Action: Prepare your property by securing items that can be picked up by strong winds. Drive cautiously.

An update for severe weather will be issued by: 10:00am Sunday 5 Jul 2026

A service provided through a contract with the Crown

Action advice supplied by the National Emergency Management Agency.

(C) Copyright Meteorological Service of New Zealand Ltd 2026