Key Takeaways
- A severe thunderstorm warning was issued for Dunedin and Clutha on Christmas Day
- The storm brought heavy rain, hail, and lightning, with approximately 200 lightning strikes in the area
- The storm caused hazardous driving conditions and posed a risk of significant damage to crops, orchards, and vehicles
- A severe thunderstorm watch remained in effect for North Otago, Dunedin, and Clutha after the initial storm passed
- There was a chance of large hail, with diameters exceeding 20mm, in Clutha, north of Balclutha, Dunedin, and North Otago
Introduction to the Storm
A blast of lightning, hail, and thunder struck Dunedin on Christmas Day, bringing an intense and dramatic end to the holiday. The city was hit with a severe thunderstorm at around 6pm, which included a heavy downpour of rain, thunder, and lightning. The storm was intense, with MetService issuing a severe thunderstorm warning for Dunedin and Clutha, advising people to seek shelter between 6:30pm and 7pm. This warning was a necessary precaution, as the storm posed a significant threat to the safety of people in the area.
The Storm’s Impact
The storm’s impact was significant, with approximately 200 lightning strikes hitting Dunedin and Clutha. This was a substantial portion of the total 600 lightning strikes that occurred in the South Island after 1pm. The rain was also intense, with about 7.5mm of rain falling in Dunedin in just 15 minutes. This burst of rain, combined with the hail and lightning, made for a dramatic and potentially hazardous situation. The storm’s impact was not limited to the initial blast, as a severe thunderstorm watch remained in effect for North Otago, Dunedin, and Clutha after the initial storm passed.
Severe Weather Warning
The severe thunderstorm warning issued by MetService was a necessary precaution, given the potential dangers posed by the storm. The warning advised people to seek shelter and avoid travel unless absolutely necessary. This was particularly important, given the risk of large hail, which could cause significant damage to crops, orchards, vines, glasshouses, and vehicles. The warning also highlighted the potential for hazardous driving conditions, which could pose a risk to people on the roads. By issuing the warning, MetService helped to minimize the risk of injury or damage, and ensured that people in the affected areas were aware of the potential dangers.
The Risk of Large Hail
One of the most significant risks posed by the storm was the chance of large hail. MetService warned that there was a chance of "severely" large hail, with diameters exceeding 20mm, in Clutha, north of Balclutha, Dunedin, and North Otago. This type of hail could cause significant damage to crops, orchards, and vehicles, and make driving conditions hazardous. The risk of large hail was a major concern, as it had the potential to cause significant economic and property damage. By highlighting this risk, MetService helped to ensure that people in the affected areas were aware of the potential dangers and could take necessary precautions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the severe thunderstorm that hit Dunedin on Christmas Day was a significant event that posed a risk to the safety of people in the area. The storm brought heavy rain, hail, and lightning, and caused hazardous driving conditions. The severe thunderstorm warning issued by MetService helped to minimize the risk of injury or damage, and ensured that people in the affected areas were aware of the potential dangers. The risk of large hail was a major concern, and highlighted the importance of monitoring weather forecasts and warnings, particularly during severe weather events. By staying informed and taking necessary precautions, people can help to minimize the risks associated with severe weather events and stay safe.
