MetService News Release
In addition to the election on this weekend, we see the arrival of daylight saving and the spring time equinox. For
those voting on Saturday, expect largely settled conditions, with a brief ridge bringing fine weather for most of the
country.
“The only fly in the ointment is a few morning showers about the northeast fringes of the North Island and rain or
showers in the west and south of the South Island.” said MetService Forecaster Cameron Coutts.
The September, or spring, equinox which also falls on Saturday is when the overhead sun passes from the northern
hemisphere to the southern hemisphere and when the sun rises due east and sets due west. The equinox heralds the arrival
of longer daylight and coincides this weekend with daylight saving.
Sunday’s weather deteriorates for the west of the South Island as strengthening northwesterlies bring more rain. Further
east, conditions on the day look dry. Meanwhile, the North Island will be predominantly sunny with a few scrappy showers
dropping in over western parts.
“It’s still looking good on Sunday in the east and far north of the country which remain dry and relatively warm, so if
you can, get out and enjoy the evening sunshine”, commented Coutts “
Going into the start of the working week, most places are looking damp and windy at times as is typical of an
equinoctial regime.
(Forecast for Saturday)
Official Severe Weather Watches and Warnings are reviewed and re-issued by MetService at least every twelve hours, and
more often if necessary. To get the most up to date information on severe weather around the country, or any other
forecasts, see metservice.com or on mobile devices at m.metservice.com. You can also follow our updates on MetService TV, at MetService New Zealand on Facebook, @metservice and @MetServiceWARN on Twitter and at blog.metservice.com
MetService issues Warnings, Watches and Outlooks for severe weather over New Zealand.
Warnings are about taking action when severe weather is imminent or is occurring. They are issued only when required.
Recommendation: ACT
Watches are about being alert when severe weather is possible, but not sufficiently imminent or certain for a Warning to be
issued. They are issued only when required.
Recommendation: BE READY
Outlooks are about looking ahead, providing advance information on possible future Watches and/or Warnings. They are issued
routinely once or twice a day.
Recommendation: PLAN
ENDS