Gale-force winds are battering Southland today, with gusts up to 120km/h forecast for exposed areas.
MetService has an orange strong wind warning in place for Southland south of Gore — including Invercargill and Stewart Island — until 2pm. Severe westerlies are the main hazard. Trees and power lines could come down, and high-sided vehicles and motorcycles face difficult conditions on the roads.
Residents should secure anything outside that can move: trampolines, outdoor furniture, building materials.
Temperatures this morning sit around 8°C, with showers already falling. It will stay cool and blustery throughout the day — frequent showers, some heavy, with around 10mm of rain possible. The mercury is unlikely to get past 9-11°C. Winds should ease later this afternoon.
Higher and inland parts of Southland may see snow on elevated ground. Invercargill and most low-lying areas will get rain.
Overnight, showers continue but ease off. West to northwest winds remain. Lows of 6-7°C expected, with another 3mm of rain possible.
Monday looks better. Showers should clear, leaving a windy but partly cloudy day with a high near 14°C.
Motorcyclists and anyone driving a high-sided vehicle should take extra care today. Allow more time, check the latest forecasts, and drive to conditions.