New Zealand storm: State of emergency declared for Kaikōura as heavy rain targets north

New Zealand's South Island is bracing for the worst of a slow-moving storm, with a state of emergency declared in Kaikōura and evacuations ordered. Northern Canterbury and Marlborough are expected to bear the brunt today, with forecasts of up to 400mm of rain.

“

That’s where we’re expecting the worst rainfall, so that’s to be taken quite seriously.

Otago experienced severe weather yesterday, including flash flooding and heavy snow. Roads were closed, the Taieri River overflowed its banks, and hundreds of homes lost power after more than 100mm of rain fell in 24 hours across parts of Dunedin and Ōamaru.

“

So that is a very real possibility for not just the red warning area but also the orange warning areas as well.

A Red Heavy Rain Warning is in effect for parts of Marlborough and northern Canterbury until early tomorrow. MetService meteorologist Katie Lyons warned of serious flooding, slips, and dangerous driving conditions, noting that evacuations might become necessary, as they were in Dunedin and Clutha.

“

always better to make that call early

The "long-lived" event will deliver its heaviest rain overnight and today, with hourly bursts of 15 to 25mm potentially overwhelming some communities. While conditions should begin to ease from Wednesday morning, the system is not expected to fully clear until Thursday or Friday in some areas. Wellington and Wairarapa are also under a Heavy Rain Watch.

“

push things over the edge