Key Takeaways
- A severe thunderstorm watch has been issued for areas from Canterbury to Southland and Fiordland, with possible downpours, large hail, and lightning strikes.
- Storms could bring localized downpours of 25mm to 40mm an hour and hail larger than 20mm, with a risk of surface flooding and hazardous driving conditions.
- The North Island is expected to experience heavy rain early next week, with heavy rain watches already in force for the Coromandel Peninsula and Gisborne/Tairāwhiti.
- MetService is urging people in affected areas to stay up to date with forecasts and warnings as conditions evolve.
Introduction to the Weather Pattern
MetService meteorologist Katie Lyons has described the current weather setup as a "classic summer pattern", with daytime heating combining with moisture in the air to trigger afternoon and evening storms. As temperatures climb through the afternoon, the atmosphere gains the necessary buoyancy to develop storms. This pattern is expected to bring severe thunderstorms to areas from Canterbury to Southland and Fiordland, with a severe thunderstorm watch issued for these regions.
Severe Thunderstorm Watch
The severe thunderstorm watch is in effect from 3pm to 9pm on Saturday, with possible downpours, large hail, and lightning strikes expected. The storms could bring localized downpours of 25mm to 40mm an hour and hail larger than 20mm, which could lead to surface flooding and hazardous driving conditions. Lyons warned that the heavier downpours could cause surface flooding, and large hail could make driving dangerous, particularly for those traveling during the holidays.
Current Weather Conditions
Christchurch was fine in the morning, but conditions are expected to become increasingly unpredictable later in the day, with heavy showers and thunderstorms possible. Meanwhile, Granity, near Westport on the West Coast, has already experienced a hailstorm, with balls of ice covering the ground. Across the rest of the country, showers are scattered through many regions, with some possibly becoming heavy at times. There is also a risk of thunderstorms in parts of the lower North Island, including southern Taranaki, Manawatū, Whanganui, northern Wairarapa, and southern Hawke’s Bay.
Regional Weather Forecasts
For the main centers this evening, Auckland is expected to remain mostly overcast with occasional showers, while Wellington is sunny but windy. Christchurch, on the other hand, faces the sharpest change as storms develop later in the day. Looking ahead, attention turns to the North Island early next week, with heavy rain watches already in force for the Coromandel Peninsula and Gisborne/Tairāwhiti from Monday into Tuesday. An active system moving down from the north could bring prolonged heavy rain, particularly for northern and eastern areas.
Heavy Rain Watches
Lyons warned that the active system could bring prolonged heavy rain, which could lead to significant rainfall totals. The heavy rain watches are in force for the Coromandel Peninsula and Gisborne/Tairāwhiti, with the possibility of heavy rain extending to other areas. MetService is urging people in affected areas to stay up to date with forecasts and warnings as conditions evolve. It is essential for people to monitor the weather forecasts and warnings, especially if they are planning to travel or engage in outdoor activities.
Conclusion and Precautions
In conclusion, the current weather pattern is expected to bring severe thunderstorms to areas from Canterbury to Southland and Fiordland, with a risk of surface flooding and hazardous driving conditions. The North Island is also expected to experience heavy rain early next week, with heavy rain watches already in force for some areas. MetService is urging people to stay informed and up to date with the latest forecasts and warnings to ensure their safety. By taking necessary precautions and staying informed, people can minimize the risks associated with the severe weather and stay safe.
