14-Aug-2008
Winter Is Still With Us
MetService meteorologists expect unsettled wintry weather to continue over the north and west of both main Islands
during the next few days.
"MetService has issued a Severe Weather Warning for heavy snow to work its way northwards from Fiordland into Westland,
Buller and north-western parts of Nelson late today and onto the central North Island during Friday", commented
MetService Weather Ambassador Bob McDavitt. "And a short period of severe northwest gales is expected overnight Thursday
in parts of Wellington and Wairarapa".
Mr McDavitt added that it is uncommon for MetService to issue a heavy snow warning for Westland, Buller or northwest
Nelson. "This snow may fall in a few places not used to it, so travellers should check road conditions and the latest
MetService forecasts and warnings and be prepared to alter their plans if necessary".
Other northern and western parts of both islands which aren't covered by the warning are likely to experience weather
which may be stormy. These areas will continue to have cold wet windy conditions, until at least the end of Friday, with
substantial snowfalls in the mountains and the occasional squally thunderstorm. MetService has issued a Severe Weather
Watch which describes these conditions in more detail.
"Winter is still with us", said Bob McDavitt. "Stay up to date with the weather at www.metservice.com".
ENDS