TThose near Franz Joseph are on high alert over heavy rain warnings

West Coast emergency management are mobilising staff, as wet weather sets in around Westland and the Grey District.

The worst is due to arrive around midday between Otira and inland from Haast.

West Coast Civil Defence's Te Aroha Cook says they're concerned about the impact on the Waiau river, particularly if stop banks fail as they did in 2019.

She says all signs are pointing to a similar, and in some instances more intense, weather event.

Cook says locals don't take this lightly, and they're working to make sure tourists do the same.