Dynamic Weather Ahead - 15 April 18
Wind, rain, thunder, hail, snow… We had it all last week. In the country infamous for four seasons in one day, last week
was a significant one weather wise, the effects of which were experienced across the entire country.
Significant strong winds affected many parts, particularly the Auckland region. Heavy rain fell across much of the
country, and the first snowfall warnings of the year were issued with a generous dumping over the South Island.
The week ahead certainly presents some dynamic weather. A series of fronts bring periods of rain and gusty winds to much
of the country tonight into tomorrow, with showery conditions lingering in behind. “We’re currently in quite a dynamic
set up”, said MetService meteorologist Tui McInnes, continuing that “an active frontal system will bring some good
bursts of rain and wind from today into Monday.” McInnes added, “while not as significant as last week’s storm, there is
still risk of severe weather, with watches and warnings in place.”
Current severe weather threats cover much of the country with heavy rain warnings affecting western areas from Fiordland
to Nelson, also Tananaki, and strong wind watches in southern and western parts of the South Island. Moderate to high
thunderstorm risks add to the mix. “The active nature of the front means that many locations are well placed to bear the
brunt of possible thunderstorms”, said McInnes. “The areas at risk include the West Coast up through Nelson, western
areas of the North Island and further east into Bay of Plenty and Coromandel”, continued McInnes, adding that “Auckland,
where much of the current concern is, the risk of thunderstorms brings the threat of squally showers during the morning,
which could result in some brief heavy rain and gusty winds.”
In behind these fronts, southwesterly winds set in over the country, producing showery conditions. “This is a very
typical situation following a front, with showery conditions establishing in western and southern areas.
We’re certainly heading towards winter now. “After a blistering summer, temperatures are cooling down,” said McInnes,
“time to light up the fireplace, turn on the electric blanket, and boil the jug for a nice hot cuppa.”