Key Takeaways
- The South Island is experiencing heavy rain and strong winds, threatening New Year’s celebrations
- Parts of the island are under heavy rain warnings and severe thunderstorm watches
- Up to 100 people were evacuated from the Twisted Frequency festival in Takaka due to rising floodwaters
- MetService has issued warnings for surface flooding, slips, and hazardous driving conditions
- A severe thunderstorm watch is in place for much of the lower half of the South Island, including Canterbury Plains, Central Otago, and Fiordland
Introduction to the Weather Conditions
It has been a turbulent week across the country, with downpours and strong winds threatening celebrations. The South Island, in particular, is welcoming the New Year with heavy rain warnings and severe thunderstorm watches. The weather conditions have been severe enough to disrupt outdoor events, such as the Twisted Frequency festival in Takaka, where police helped evacuate up to 100 people to Takaka Hall as the local river was rising rapidly and some parts of the festival area began to flood.
Heavy Rain Warnings and Severe Thunderstorm Watches
The ranges of Tasman District, west of Takaka, and Buller were under orange heavy rain warnings on Thursday. Tasman’s warnings were in place until 4pm, with up to 80mm more rain expected on top of what has already fallen. MetService said streams and rivers could rise rapidly, with surface flooding, slips, and difficult driving conditions possible. In Buller, up to 100mm of rain could fall on top of what already had, with its warning in place until 6pm. Meanwhile, much of the lower half of the South Island was under a severe thunderstorm watch from 2pm until 9pm, covering areas such as Canterbury Plains, Canterbury High Country, Central Otago, Southern Lakes, Southland, and Fiordland.
MetService Warnings and Advisories
MetService said an "unstable airmass" would affect the area on Thursday afternoon and evening, leading to a moderate risk of thunderstorms in certain areas. The agency warned that some of these storms may become severe, producing localized downpours of 25 to 40 mm/h. This level of rainfall can cause surface and/or flash flooding, especially in low-lying areas such as streams, rivers, or narrow valleys, and may also lead to slips. Driving conditions will also be hazardous with surface flooding and poor visibility in heavy rain. MetService advised people to exercise caution and stay informed about the latest weather updates.
Impact on Events and Daily Life
The severe weather conditions have already had an impact on outdoor events and daily life in the affected areas. The evacuation of the Twisted Frequency festival in Takaka is a prime example of the disruptions caused by the heavy rain and strong winds. The festival organizers and attendees had to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety, and the police played a crucial role in evacuating people to a safer location. The weather conditions have also affected daily life, with people having to navigate through flooded roads and hazardous driving conditions.
Conclusion and Precautions
In conclusion, the South Island is experiencing severe weather conditions, with heavy rain and strong winds threatening New Year’s celebrations. It is essential for people to stay informed about the latest weather updates and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety. MetService has issued warnings and advisories, and it is crucial to follow their guidelines to avoid any potential risks. By being aware of the weather conditions and taking necessary precautions, people can minimize the disruptions caused by the severe weather and enjoy a safe and happy New Year’s celebration.
