Heavy rain is expected across much of the region over the next day, with Metservice issuing three Heavy Rain Warnings for the Top of the South.
Metservice has heavy rain warnings in place for Tasman, west of Motueka, the Richmond and Bryant Ranges, and the Rai Valley.
An orange rain warning is in place for the Richmond and Bryant Ranges and Rai Valley from 10pm Friday till 7pm Saturday. Between 90 and 130mm of rain is expected which may cause streams and rivers to rise rapidly. Surface flooding and slips are also possible and driving conditions may be hazardous.
Up to 200mm of northerly rain is expected for Tasman, west of Motueka during the 24 hours from 5pm Friday, prompting another heavy rain warning.
Peak intensities are expected of 20 to 25mm per hour suring Saturday with largest rainfall likely west of Tākaka.
The third warning has been issued for Buller, which can expect up to 150mm of rain to fall from 2pm Friday until 4pm Saturday.
Waka Kotahi is urging road users in Nelson, Tasman, Tākaka, and Marlborough to keep an eye on road and weather conditions this weekend.
Mark Owen, Regional Manager Wellington/Top of South, says some parts of the local highway network are still to be fully repaired following the floods in August.
“This means they are vulnerable to more damage should we get sudden and intense rain and could be closed at short notice. People travelling over the weekend must keep an eye on the weather and keep up to date on road conditions.”
