Heavy rain and strong winds are expected for Marlborough tomorrow morning from 3am until 3pm, Tuesday 12 July.

MetService advises the region can expect 100mm to 140mm of rain about the East Coast including Kaikōura. Wind speeds may reach 90 km/h in exposed places.

People are advised to stay off the roads tomorrow if possible. Do not drive through flood water.

Marlborough Emergency Management is keeping a close eye on the forecast and key agencies including Council, Waka Kotahi, Marlborough Roads, Police and Fire and Emergency are making plans in case roads need to be closed due to flooding or slips.

It’s likely that stream and rivers will rise rapidly, particularly on the East Coast. Surface flooding and land slips are possible. East Coast settlements such as Ward, Seddon, Rarangi and Port Underwood are likely to receive significant rainfall. Parts of the Marlborough Sounds including the Kenepuru and Picton may be affected.

There may also be surface flooding in Blenheim and surrounds, particularly at river ford crossings on the Wairau Plain.

The MetService will update its forecast later this evening. People are advised to heed weather warnings and keep an eye on the MetService website or app, and follow news reports.

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