Severe thunderstorm watch for parts of South Island

MetService is warning of severe weather conditions for parts of the South Island this afternoon.

A Severe Thunderstorm Watch warning is in place for Christchurch, Canterbury Plains, and North Otago.

Those areas are to expect scattered heavy showers and thunderstorms this afternoon until 8pm this evening.

MetService warns "thunderstorms may become severe, and produce hail with diameter in excess of 2cm."