MetService are forecasting a duo of southerly fronts this week, making for colder and wetter conditions – some active
weather to mark World Meteorology Day (Monday 23 March).
Monday and Tuesday see a strong southerly change travel up the country. Brief respite on Wednesday and early Thursday
precedes a second front, perpetuating the dip in temperatures and some rain.
Today, the front is being forecast as a “southerly buster” as it travels up the South Island east coast. A colloquial
term frequently used by Southern Hemisphere meteorologists, a buster refers to a dramatic southerly change, abruptly
delivering very strong winds, sharp temperature drops and a burst of rain. It’s also not uncommon for a few rumbles of
thunder.
MetService meteorologist Tui McInnes explains: “Today’s buster up the South Island will be a rather significant change
in the weather, especially for those around the coast. We are expecting strong wind gusts of up to 90 km/h in exposed
locations.”
The cooler temperatures get a short break mid-week as high-pressure settles things for a time. However, the second front
which hits on Thursday will again bring cold temperatures, wet weather and strong winds.
“We are in autumn,” reminds McInnes, “and that means the time of year for changeable weather, so keep up to date with
the forecast on metservice.com.”Understanding our Severe Weather Watches and Warnings
Outlooks are about looking ahead:To provide advanced information on possible future Watches and/or WarningsIssued routinely once or twice a dayRecommendation: PlanWatches
are about being alert:When severe weather is possible, but not sufficiently imminent or certain for a warning to be issuedTypically issued 1 - 3 days in advance of potential severe weather.During a Watch: Stay alertOrange Warnings
are about taking action:When severe weather is imminent or is occurringTypically issued 1 - 3 days in advance of potential severe weatherIn the event of an Orange Warning: Take actionRed Warnings
are about taking immediate action:When extremely severe weather is imminent or is occurringIssued 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 affectedIn the event of a Red Warning: Act now!