Civil Defence authorities in the West Coast and Canterbury are on stand-by, as severe weather hits the South Island. (Getty Images)

Severe weather warnings for South Island

Author: Newstalk ZB Staff ,
Publish Date: Tue, 17 Jan 2017, 8:22PM

Civil Defence authorities in the West Coast and Canterbury are on stand-by, as severe weather hits the South Island.

A heavy rain warning is in place for Westland, Buller and Nelson for the next two days, which could cause surface flooding, slips and rapidly rising river levels.

There's also a strong wind warning for Wairarapa, Wellington, Marlborough and Canterbury north of Ashburton.

MetService meteorologist Lisa Murray said up to 400 millimetres could fall in the Westland and Buller Ranges, and up to 120 millimetres could fall on the coast.

Council CEO Michael Meehan said information can be found on the council, NZTA and MetService websites.

He said if people need to travel - expect surface flooding and delays.

West Coast and Canterbury Civil Defence are asking people to avoid unnecessary travel.