WELLINGTON, July 6 (Xinhua) -- A powerful storm is battering New Zealand's South Island, prompting "threat to life" warnings as authorities brace for severe flooding, landslides and dangerous river conditions.
MetService has issued rare red heavy rain warnings for parts of Marlborough, Canterbury, Dunedin and Clutha.
Rainfall could peak at 15 to 25 millimeters per hour in some areas, particularly along mountain ranges, Radio New Zealand reported on Monday.
Officials warn that conditions may render roads impassable, disrupt travel and isolate communities.
Local authorities in Dunedin have urged residents to stay home, avoid unnecessary travel and monitor official updates. Flood barriers have been deployed, sandbag stations opened and evacuation centers established.
Heavy snow is also forecast above 800 meters in parts of South Canterbury in the South Island, while gale-force winds continue to lash exposed regions and coastal areas, according to MetService.
The low-pressure system is expected to persist until midweek before moving north, with further impacts possible in the North Island, including the capital Wellington, it said. ■
