MetService Meteorologist April Clark says, “Persistent southeasterlies over eastern Marlborough and Canterbury this weekend delivered between 100-250mm of rain to much of the region, and significant snow accumulation to the high country. Akaroa recorded a whopping 245mm of rain from midnight Friday to 6am Monday. It will be a relief for these areas to hear that as winds turn southwest today the easing rain will be pushed away to the north.”
For the rest of the country, this week also sees a shift to southwesterlies and a changeable, showery weather pattern.
The first of several cold fronts is expected to cross Aotearoa New Zealand during Tuesday and Wednesday bringing strong, cold southwesterlies and thundery showers to the country. Snow is expected to lower to 400-600 meters in the far south overnight Tuesday. The North Island high country could also see snow down to 1000 meters on Wednesday.
A strong wind watch is in force for regions north (and including) Auckland on Wednesday, with gusts of 120km/h possible in exposed places.
Strong southwesterlies also bring large, long period southwest swell to both western and eastern coasts starting late Tuesday. For more information keep up to date with the latest marine forecast and council advice if you are concerned about coastal inundation.
Another burst of strong winds and showers is forecast as a second front moves north over the country late Wednesday and during Thursday.
“Those heading to the Football Ferns game in the Capital Tuesday evening should pack a jacket (or two) even if they intend to keep themselves warm with exuberant support.” Clark recommends. “Though it’s looking to be dry during game time, cool temperatures and gusty winds will keep conditions at the stadium chilly.”
Understanding MetService Severe Weather Warning System
Severe Thunderstorm Warnings (Localised Red Warning) – take cover now:
This warning is a red warning for a localised area.
When extremely severe weather is occurring or will do within the hour.
Severe thunderstorms have the ability to have significant impacts for an area indicated in the warning.
In the event of a Severe Thunderstorm Red Warning: Act now!
Red Warnings are about taking immediate action:
When extremely severe weather is imminent or is occurring
Issued when an event is expected to be among the worst that we get – it will have significant impact and it is possible that a lot of people will be affected
In the event of a Red Warning: Act now!
Orange Warnings are about taking action:
When severe weather is imminent or is occurring
Typically issued 1 – 3 days in advance of potential severe weather
In the event of an Orange Warning: Take action.
Thunderstorm Watch means thunderstorms are possible, be alert and consider action
Show the area that thunderstorms are most likely to occur during the validity period.
Although thunderstorms are often localised, the whole area is on watch as it is difficult to know exactly where the severe thunderstorm will occur within the mapped area.
During a thunderstorm Watch: Stay alert and take action if necessary.
Watches are about being alert:
When severe weather is possible, but not sufficiently imminent or certain for a warning to be issued
Typically issued 1 – 3 days in advance of potential severe weather.
During a Watch: Stay alert
Outlooks are about looking ahead:
To provide advanced information on possible future Watches and/or Warnings
Issued routinely once or twice a day
Recommendation: Plan
