Key Takeaways
- MetService has issued severe weather warnings and watches for the weekend
- Heat alerts are in place for several locations, including Whakatāne, Napier, Hastings, Motueka, Blenheim, and Kaikōura
- Temperatures are expected to reach as high as 37C in Hastings and 35C in Napier
- Residents are being urged to prepare for the heat and take necessary precautions to stay safe
- Heavy rain and strong wind warnings are also in place for the southwest of the South Island and other parts of the country
Introduction to Severe Weather Warnings
MetService has issued severe weather warnings and watches for the weekend, with heat alerts already in effect for several locations. The heat is expected to ramp up, with temperatures reaching as high as 37C in Hastings and 35C in Napier. MetService meteorologist Clare O’Connor stated that while New Zealand is not receiving the full brunt of the Australian heat, the temperatures are still high for the country and planning accordingly is crucial. Heat alerts are triggered when the temperature reaches a certain threshold, which is picked by meteorologists using two decades worth of data for 46 locations.
Heat Alerts and Precautions
Heat alerts are in place for Whakatāne, Napier, Hastings, Motueka, Blenheim, and Kaikōura, with more alerts likely to follow for the weekend. Residents are being urged to prepare for the heat and take necessary precautions to stay safe. Hastings Mayor Wendy Schollum emphasized the importance of staying hydrated, taking breaks in the shade, and avoiding the hottest part of the day. She also stressed the need for the community to look out for each other, particularly older people, infants, and toddlers who are most susceptible to heat. The community is advised to check on vulnerable neighbors and family members, and to provide support and assistance as needed.
Heavy Rain and Strong Wind Warnings
In addition to the heat alerts, MetService has also issued heavy rain and strong wind warnings for the southwest of the South Island and other parts of the country. An orange heavy rain warning has been issued for the ranges of the Westland District, while a strong wind warning is in place for Canterbury. There are also several heavy rain and strong wind watches in effect for other parts of the South Island and lower North Island. Residents are advised to prepare for the heavy rain and strong winds, and to take necessary precautions to stay safe. This includes securing outdoor furniture and decorations, trimming tree branches, and staying indoors during the worst of the weather.
Full Watches and Warnings List
MetService has issued a full list of watches and warnings, including:
- Heavy Rain Warning – Orange: The ranges of the Westland District about and north of Haast, and Westland and Fiordland between Haast and Doubtful Sound
- Strong Wind Warning – Orange: Canterbury about the High Country and near the foothills
- Heavy Rain Watch: The ranges of the Grey and Buller districts south of Karamea, Nelson Lakes, headwaters of the Canterbury lakes and rivers, and Fiordland
- Strong Wind Watch: Wellington and Wairarapa, Marlborough, Canterbury east of the foothills, Otago, Fiordland, Southland, and Stewart Island
Residents are advised to check the MetService website for the latest updates and to stay informed about the weather conditions in their area.
Conclusion and Preparation
In conclusion, MetService has issued severe weather warnings and watches for the weekend, with heat alerts and heavy rain and strong wind warnings in place for several locations. Residents are urged to prepare for the weather conditions and take necessary precautions to stay safe. This includes staying hydrated, taking breaks in the shade, and avoiding the hottest part of the day, as well as securing outdoor furniture and decorations, trimming tree branches, and staying indoors during the worst of the weather. By taking these precautions and staying informed, residents can help to minimize the risks associated with the severe weather and stay safe.
