MetService has updated the severe weather warnings and watches for Canterbury for today and tomorrow.

For Canterbury Plains north of Rangitata River, including the foothills and Christchurch, expect 90 to 140 mm of rain to accumulate.

Peak rates of 15 to 25 mm/h.

Heavy rain is expected to ease north of Christchurch City after midnight Wednesday.

Surface flooding is affecting a number of Christchurch roads.

For Eastern Marlborough south of Blenheim expect a further 60 to 80 mm of rain to accumulate on top of what has already fallen, especially about Kaikoura Coast. Peak rates of 10 to 20 mm/h, for a period of 8hrs from 10am – 6pm Wednesday.

Heavy rain may cause streams and rivers to rise rapidly. Surface flooding and slips are also possible and driving conditions may be hazardous.