MetService has issued a warning of potential threats to life as an extreme weather system packing winds of up to 150km/h is forecast to hit parts of New Zealand on Thursday.

Northwesterly wind speeds of 150 km/h are possible for exposed parts of Canterbury High Country and 130 km/h for the Canterbury Plains and Christchurch.

The forecaster has released a raft of severe weather alerts for central and southern regions, including rare red strong wind warnings for Canterbury, as the country braces for damaging gales and heavy rain.

For Christchurch and the Canterbury Plains, it will be active from 10:00am to 4:00pm.

In the Canterbury High Country, the warning is in effect from 1:00am to 5:00pm.

The extreme conditions are being driven by an active front associated with a “significant deep low” moving in from the south.

MetService says the system could bring destructive winds, capable of causing widespread damage, including to powerlines and roofs.

“Destructive winds will cause widespread damage including powerlines and roofs, with dangerous driving conditions and significant disruption to transport and power supply,” MetService warned.

It added that the front poses “a threat to life” due to the risk of falling trees and flying debris.

MetService meteorologist Mmathapelo Makgabutlane says, “Thursday has a similar but stronger flavour. While some areas may have escaped the impacts earlier in the week, Thursday’s winds are expected to be more widespread and could affect places that don’t often see strong winds.”

“The public are advised to take the opportunity today (Wednesday) to prepare for the significant and damaging winds on Thursday. Secure any loose items, make sure batteries are charged. Once it kicks off on Thursday, stay indoors or seek sturdy shelter away from trees. Avoid unnecessary travel. Be ready for power and communication outages,” Makgabutlane advises.