Key Takeaways
- A front is moving northwards over the South Island, bringing heavy rain and strong winds to parts of the region
- Orange heavy rain warnings are in place for the ranges in Buller, Westland, and Grey districts, as well as the Canterbury Headwaters
- Heavy rain watches have been issued for the Tasman District, Westland District, and Canterbury Headwaters
- A strong wind watch is in place for the Canterbury High Country and near the foothills
- There is a moderate chance that the heavy rain watches will be upgraded to warnings
Introduction to the Weather Forecast
The South Island is bracing itself for a wet and windy Christmas Day, with a front moving northwards over the region. According to MetService, the front is expected to bring heavy rain to the west coast and gales to Canterbury. The front is forecast to move slowly around the northern parts of the island, leading to a prolonged period of inclement weather. As the front moves northwards, it is expected to bring significant amounts of rain to the western parts of the South Island, with some areas potentially experiencing thunderstorms.
Heavy Rain Warnings and Watches
MetService has issued orange heavy rain warnings for several areas, including the ranges in Buller, Westland, and Grey districts, as well as the Canterbury Headwaters. These warnings are in place from early Thursday morning and indicate that heavy rain is expected to fall in these areas. In addition to the warnings, heavy rain watches have been issued for the Tasman District, the ranges of the Westland District, and the Canterbury Headwaters. These watches indicate that there is a possibility of heavy rain in these areas, and there is a moderate chance that they will be upgraded to warnings. The heavy rain is expected to be most intense in the mountainous regions, where the terrain can exacerbate the effects of the rain.
Strong Wind Watch
A strong wind watch is also in place for the Canterbury High Country and near the foothills, with MetService warning that northwest winds may approach severe gale force in exposed places. This watch is in effect until 9am on Christmas morning, and residents in these areas are advised to take necessary precautions to secure any outdoor items that could become loose in the strong winds. The strong winds are expected to be particularly hazardous in areas with loose debris or unstable structures, and residents are advised to exercise caution when traveling or engaging in outdoor activities.
Impact on Christmas Day
The wet and windy weather is likely to have a significant impact on Christmas Day celebrations in the affected areas. Outdoor activities, such as barbecues or picnics, may need to be postponed or canceled, and residents are advised to check the weather forecast regularly for updates. The heavy rain and strong winds may also cause disruptions to travel, particularly in rural areas where roads may become impassable. Residents are advised to plan their travel carefully and to check the weather forecast before embarking on any journeys.
Conclusion and Preparations
In conclusion, the South Island is expected to experience a wet and windy Christmas Day, with heavy rain and strong winds forecast for parts of the region. Residents are advised to take necessary precautions to prepare for the inclement weather, including securing outdoor items and planning travel carefully. By staying informed and taking necessary precautions, residents can help to ensure a safe and enjoyable Christmas Day, despite the challenging weather conditions. It is also important for residents to stay up to date with the latest weather forecasts and warnings, and to follow the advice of local authorities and emergency services. By working together, residents can help to minimize the impact of the wet and windy weather and ensure a safe and happy Christmas Day for all.