11-Oct-2006
Out With Cold Winds And In With Warm Dry Winds
MetService meteorologists have a severe weather warning out for westerly gales over Southland and Otago. These winds may
become widespread from Thursday until the weekend.
"It's spring," said MetService Weather Ambassador, Bob McDavitt. "October is typically our windiest month of the year.
After the recent cold snap there was a lull in the wind this morning and our weather stations detected moderate four
degree frosts around Hastings and Christchurch. In typical spring fashion we are now forecasting warm and dry gales for
many eastern areas for the rest of the week."
In Southland and Otago winds from the west or northwest may be severe gale force at times today or tonight and then ease
on Thursday morning. Winds are forecast to redevelop and spread north from late on Thursday.
Driving conditions are likely to be hazardous in many areas including western districts from Nelson to Wanganui, and
very hazardous in Southern Hawke's Bay between Havelock North and Pahiatua. Winds from this direction bring temperatures
in the mid-twenties to most eastern districts, and dry conditions that exacerbate the fire risk.
This period of wind is expected to last at least until late on Saturday.
ENDS