Strong wind and heavy rain warnings issued for Canterbury High Country

Monday, 15 December 2025

A strong wind warning and a heavy rain warning have been issued for the Canterbury High Country and the headwaters of Canterbury lakes and rivers.

The strong wind warning for the high country came into effect at 8am on Monday and would be in place until 2am on Tuesday.

MetService forecast severe northwest winds gusting at 120kph in exposed places which could cause damage to trees, powerlines, and unsecured structures.

“Driving may be difficult, especially for high-sided vehicles and motorcycles,” MetService said.

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

The weather service said the winds would start to ease from the south from Monday evening and there was a minimal chance of the warning upgrading to a red warning.

A heavy rain warning for the headwaters of the Canterbury lakes and rivers, about and south of Arthur’s Pass, would come into effect at 3pm and remain in place until 2am on Tuesday.

The forecast was for 140mm to 190mm of rain about the main divide, and 70mm to 120mm within 20km further east, with peak rainfall of 20mm to 30mm per hour about the main divide.

“Streams and rivers may rise rapidly. Surface flooding, slips, and difficult driving conditions possible,” MetService said.

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

MetService said there was minimal chance of upgrading to a red warning.