The start of 2010 is expected to bring strong winds and heavy rain to parts of the South Island.
The MetService has issued a severe weather warning with a vigorous front forecast to blast the South tonight and move northwards.
Very strong northwesterlies bringing heavy rain, with thunder and possible intense lightning, are expected to hit Fiordland and the Southern Alps from late this afternoon ahead of the front, until Saturday morning.
The winds will be gusting up to 140km/h in exposed areas of Southland, Otago and Canterbury, which is enough to damage trees and be a nuisance for campers and motorists.
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