<\/p>\n
\nA woman has difficulty holding an umbrella from strong winds in rainy weather.
\nPhoto: 123RF\n<\/p>\n
MetService has issued a severe thunderstorm watch for much of the South Island.<\/p>\n
It covers Christchurch, Canterbury Plains, Canterbury High Country, North Otago, Central Otago, Southern Lakes, Dunedin, Clutha, Southland and Fiordland.<\/p>\n
MetService said thunder could be accompanied by very heavy rain and large hail.<\/p>\n
As of 8.30am Saturday, the watch was expected to be in place until 9pm.<\/p>\n
“A cold and unstable air-mass affects the South Island. For much of Fiordland, Southland, Otago, and Canterbury from about Christchurch southwards, there is a moderate risk of thunderstorms this afternoon and evening,” MetService said.<\/p>\n
“There is also a moderate risk that some of these storms may become SEVERE (sic) between 3pm and 9pm today (Saturday), which could produce localised downpours of 25 to 40mm\/h and\/or hail larger than 20mm.<\/p>\n
“Rainfall of this intensity can cause surface and\/or flash flooding, especially about low-lying areas such as streams, rivers or narrow valleys, and may also lead to slips.”<\/p>\n
Poor visibility and surface flooding could make driving difficult, and large hail had the capacity to “cause significant damage to crops, orchards, vines, glasshouses and vehicles”.<\/p>\n
“Should severe weather approach or if you feel threatened, take shelter immediately.”<\/p>\n