A number of cold fronts are moving up the country today, bringing periods of rain and possible thunderstorms to Canterbury. A "moderate risk" of thunderstorms is forecast for areas of Canterbury near the Southern Alps, Otago, Fiordland and Westland. "A low risk of thunderstorms extends further north to Buller in the morning and about coastal parts of Southland," a MetService spokesman said. And anyone in North Otago and South Canterbury will need a raincoat this afternoon and evening - with thunderstorms expected later on Friday. People in those areas are being told to be prepared for a period of rain and localised thunderstorms to western parts as a result.

Source: Otago Daily Times April 16, 2021 00:32 UTC