Metservice has issued new weather warnings for Canterbury, with strong winds and heavy rain expected to start the week.

A Strong Wind Warning is in effect for the Canterbury High Country from 6pm on Monday, 2 September until 8am on Tuesday, 3 September.

Severe northwest gales are forecasted to reach gusts of up to 120km/h in exposed areas. Metservice said there is a low chance of this warning being upgraded to Red.

Potential impacts include damage to trees, powerlines, and unsecured structures, as well as difficult driving conditions, particularly for high-sided vehicles and motorcycles.

In addition, a Heavy Rain Warning, also classified as Orange, is in place for the Canterbury Headwaters south of Arthur’s Pass.

This warning is effective from 11pm on Monday, 2 September until 11am on Tuesday, 3 September. Rainfall is expected to total between 80 and 100mm near the main divide, with peak rates of 10 to 25mm per hour anticipated in thunderstorms. Metservice has warned that streams and rivers may rise rapidly, leading to surface flooding, slips, and challenging driving conditions.

Metservice advises residents to take precautions, such as securing loose items that could be blown away and staying informed about the latest weather updates, especially for those near southern rivers and streams.