RAIN STORM

Between the 8th and 10th January 2013 heavy rain and high winds struck Fiordland and the lower part of the South Island of New Zealand, while at the same time fire fighters in the middle of the Island (Canterbury) were struggling with hot dry Nor West winds while fighting numerous bush fires and endeavouring to save homes and businesses.

While the rain was particularly heavy in Fiordland with some strong winds and thunder storms the most affected areas were to the East of the Southern Alps and the northern areas of the West Coast.  In these areas a number of roads were closed due to slips and bridges being washed out affecting many holiday makers and tourists.

In spite of the rough weather visitors to the area were rewarded with some spectacular sights as can be seen in the attached video.  If you are having trouble seeing this try opening "A Little Rain May fall" from You Tube..