MetService News Release

26 May 2016

Significant low pressure system to affect New Zealand this weekend

New Zealand has had its fair share of unsettled weather in the last two weeks, and yet another active low pressure system will batter the country this weekend. Severe weather, including heavy rain and gales, will affect many parts of the country. “Squally thunderstorms are also likely for parts of the North lsland and the upper South Island, especially Saturday morning,” commented Metservice Meteorologist Stephen Glassey.

Rain from this system is expected to spread onto central New Zealand Friday evening and most other places on Saturday as the low crosses the country. Severe weather warnings and watches have already been issued for heavy rain and severe gales for a number of areas. Significant snow is also likely to fall in the Canterbury High Country and parts of inland Otago, affecting many higher roads in these areas from Friday night into Saturday. Further alpine snow in the South Island will be great news for the ski fields ahead of their winter season.

After the worst of the rain, wind and snow on Saturday, the low becomes slow moving east of the South Island on Sunday, directing a showery southwest flow over the country. ”The weather looks set to remain unsettled until the middle of next week” added Glassey. “With changeable weather in the forecast, it is important for people keep up to date with the latest updates from MetService”.

ENDS

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