5/12/19
MetService is forecasting more rain and gales for central and southern parts of New Zealand through to the end of the
weekend, while eastern regions will be fine and warm.
MetService continue to have Severe Weather Warnings and Watches in place, as this week has seen very wet weather in the
west of the South Island, while northwest gales have lashed central and southern parts of the country. The severe
weather continues through the week and into the weekend for many parts of the country as a strong, moist northwesterly
flow maintains its hold over the country’s weather.
Rain on the West Coast has been very heavy, even by West Coast standards. MetService Meteorologist Tahlia Crabtree
explains: “More than 600mm of rain has accumulated at several weather stations in the Alps since Monday, which has then
flowed from alpine headwaters into rivers and lakes. The persistent rain means lakes and rivers haven’t had the chance
to subside. Warnings are out for heavy rain, which is expected to continue until Sunday.”
Summer hasn’t been lost on everyone however, as northwesterlies bring fine and warm weather for those along the east
coasts of the country. Napier has already reached a maximum temperature of 29°C this week and is forecast to push into
the 30s moving into the weekend.
Some respite is on the way from the northwesterly rain and wind, as a front moves up the country on Sunday and Monday,
bringing an end to the wild weather. Monday is set to welcome in a period of settled weather, with mild temperatures and
lighter south to southwest winds.
ends