A severe thunderstorm warning has been issued for northern Canterbury and Marlborough this evening, predicted to include large hail, damaging winds and possible tornadoes.
MetService announced the severe thunderstorm watch will last until 8pm tonight for the areas of Marlborough, Christchurch, Canterbury Plains and Canterbury High Country.
The severe thunderstorms were detected around 4.30pm.
They are moving southeast, and are expected to lie near Cheviot and Lowry Peaks Range, in northern Canterbury, at 5pm today.
The storms are forecast to reach Canterbury's Parnassus, Domett and Blythe Valley early this evening.
MetService warns the rain accompanying these storms may be heavy enough to cause surface or flash flooding about streams, gullies and urban areas, and make driving conditions extremely hazardous.
The Ministry of Civil Defence and Emergency Management advises taking shelter indoors away from windows, as these storms approach south through Canterbury.
Also advised is moving cars away from trees, checking drains and making sure gutters are clear.
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