A significant autumnal change is set to bring heavy rain and strong winds to the South Island this weekend, with warnings of up to 250 millimetres of rain. The MetService expects the heaviest rain on Thursday morning, with 20 to 30 millimetres possible per hour.
Key facts:
- Heavy rain and strong winds are forecast for lower parts of New Zealand this weekend.
- An orange heavy rain warning has been issued for the ranges of the Westland District starting at 9pm tomorrow.
- A heavy rain watch is in effect for Fiordland north of Doubtful Sound and the headwaters of Otago and Canterbury’s lakes and rivers.
The weather outlook has changed dramatically. While residents enjoyed mild autumn weather recently, conditions are shifting. Braydon White from MetService noted, “While we’ve been enjoying the light winds and lack of rain for the last while, these crisp still mornings are about to end and the wetter side of autumn is set to come back with a bang.”
This shift comes as a second, deeper area of low pressure approaches. Strong southwesterlies are expected as the weekend approaches, bringing large swells to western coastlines. Overnight temperatures in the North Island will be as much as 15°C warmer than recent averages.
The direct effects will be felt across various regions. Areas like Otago and Canterbury may experience significant impacts from the heavy rainfall. The public should prepare for possible disruptions due to flooding or landslides.
Braydon White added, “The wetter weather brings along much warmer temperatures.” This indicates a notable temperature increase alongside the incoming storm system.
As residents brace for these changes, they should remain vigilant about weather updates from MetService. The next round of severe weather is expected to arrive Friday.
