A severe weather warning and severe thunderstorm watch is in place across the region.
Metservice issued the warning this morning but it appears the worst is over.
The active front that passed over the region last night has left a trail of sodden ground, wet washing on lines and a strong west to northwest airflow.
“Heavy rain has been falling in the the west and north of the South Island, but is expected to turn to showers today with squally thunderstorms.”
The warning was upgraded from a watch yesterday and will remain in place for, Buller and western Nelson until this afternoon or evening.
Heavy rain is expected to continue through to this afternoon for western Nelson and people should expect a a further 40 to 50mm of rain before 3pm this afternoon.
Peak intensities of 25 mm per hour are possible with thunderstorms.
Rivers and streams are expected to rise rapidly and may cause slips and surface flooding.
Heavy swells and large waves are also a possibility and may cause coastal erosion in vulnerable areas and make driving conditions hazardous about low-lying coastal roads.
The heavy rain warning over Richmond and Bryant Ranges has been lifted and is no longer in force.
An update on the severe weather warning will be issued on Metservice later on in the day.
