Key Takeaways
- Heavy rain and downpours are expected to continue in the North Island, particularly in the Bay of Plenty and Rotorua, until Friday
- The weather is expected to ease somewhat over the next couple of days, but will not return to settled summer weather
- Temperatures will feel chillier, especially in eastern coastal areas, with maximums struggling to reach 20°C in some regions
- Wellington Anniversary Day is expected to be sunnier in areas such as Kāpiti and Horowhenua, making it a good opportunity for a road trip or beach day
Introduction to the Weather Forecast
The MetService has issued a warning for heavy rain and downpours in the North Island, particularly in the Bay of Plenty and Rotorua, which are under an orange heavy rain warning until 11am Friday. According to MetService meteorologist Katie Lyons, many areas in the North Island can expect broadscale heavy rain, as well as the risk of localized, shorter-lived downpours. These downpours can cause flooding, especially when combined with the already heavy rain. The active low moving over the country from the west is the cause of this wet and wild weather, and it is expected to bring significant rainfall to many areas.
Expected Weather Conditions
The weather is expected to ease somewhat over the next couple of days, but it will not return to the settled summer weather that many people are hoping for. Instead, the coming days will feel much chillier, particularly around New Zealand’s eastern coasts. Maximum temperatures for Napier and Gisborne will struggle to reach 20°C from Saturday, while Canterbury maximums will sit around 15°C. This is a significant drop from the warmer temperatures experienced last week, and it is likely to be a disappointment for those who were looking forward to enjoying the summer weather. The MetService is warning people to be prepared for the cooler temperatures and to take necessary precautions to stay warm and dry.
Regional Weather Variations
While the weather is expected to be cool and wet in many areas, there are some regional variations that are worth noting. For example, the Bay of Plenty and Rotorua are expected to experience the heaviest rain, with an orange heavy rain warning in place until 11am Friday. In contrast, areas such as Kāpiti and Horowhenua are expected to be sunnier on Wellington Anniversary Day, making them a good destination for a road trip or beach day. According to Katie Lyons, "Peering ahead for Wellington Anniversary Day, Kāpiti and Horowhenua up through Whanganui look to be sunnier than Wellington itself, so a road trip and beach day may be on the cards for Monday." This variation in weather highlights the importance of checking local weather forecasts before making plans.
Implications of the Weather
The cool and wet weather is likely to have significant implications for many people, particularly those who were planning outdoor activities or events. The flooding caused by the heavy rain and downpours can also cause disruptions to daily life, including transportation and work. It is essential for people to stay informed about the weather forecast and to take necessary precautions to stay safe and dry. The MetService is urging people to check their website and social media channels for updates on the weather, and to follow any instructions from local authorities. By staying informed and taking necessary precautions, people can minimize the impact of the bad weather and stay safe.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the MetService is warning of heavy rain and downpours in the North Island, particularly in the Bay of Plenty and Rotorua, until Friday. The weather is expected to ease somewhat over the next couple of days, but it will not return to settled summer weather. Temperatures will feel chillier, especially in eastern coastal areas, and there will be regional variations in the weather. It is essential for people to stay informed about the weather forecast and to take necessary precautions to stay safe and dry. By doing so, people can minimize the impact of the bad weather and make the most of the upcoming weekend.
