The MetService has issued a heavy rainfall watch for parts of the South Island due to the potential for periods of heavy rainfall from Saturday night (24 January) into Sunday (25 January).

• The watch is in effect for Otago south of Alexandra and Oamaru, and mainland Southland from 2000 hours (local time) on Saturday (24 January) until 1500 hours (local time) on Sunday (25 January).
• Rainfall amounts may exceed warning criteria in localized areas, particularly across higher terrain. There is a moderate likelihood that the watch may be upgraded to a heavy rainfall warning if conditions intensify.