MetService is forecasting a slow-moving ridge of high pressure will bring dry and settled weather to most of the country
this week, with no relief likely for parched areas. A southwesterly flow has kept temperatures on the cool side of the
ledger over the weekend, but by mid-week the majority of towns and cities should be experiencing above average
temperatures again.
MetService Meteorologist Peter Little commented, “Fiordland and Westland south of the Glaciers are the only places
likely to receive more than a few millimetres of rain this week, as a persistent ridge over northern and central New
Zealand keeps other weather systems at arm’s length. Temperatures are expected to warm up by the middle of the week,
with 30°C forecast for Hamilton, Taumarunui and Masterton on Wednesday, and 32°C predicted for Gisborne and Hastings on
Thursday.”
Computer model rainfall forecast showing dry conditions prevailing
Meanwhile, Tropical Cyclone UESI was named by the Fiji Meteorological Service in the early hours of this morning. The
now Category 2 Cyclone is currently located west of Vanuatu, and is forecast to track southwards over the next few days.
“Tropical Cyclone UESI should pass close to or over New Caledonia on Wednesday, then move over the northern Tasman Sea
by the weekend. There is no threat to New Zealand from the cyclone this week, and MetService’s Tropical Cyclone
Specialists will continue to monitor this system as it evolves,” added Little.