Strong Wind and Heavy Rain Warnings Issued Across South Island and Lower North Island for Long Weekend
MetService has issued strong wind warnings for the Canterbury High Country, Fiordland, and Stewart Island, with strong wind watches also in place for Central Otago, Queenstown Lakes, inland Southland, Canterbury, Marlborough, Wellington, and Wairarapa.
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MetService meteorologist Clare O’Connor warned that norwesterly winds could reach speeds of up to 120km/h on Saturday.
“Travelers in the South Island, especially those driving high-sided vehicles and motorcycles, should exercise extra caution,” she advised. “Wind gusts can catch the side of your vehicle and cause swerving, so be prepared and stay attentive.”
O’Connor also emphasized the importance of staying updated on weather conditions and checking routes on the Transport Agency’s website before traveling.
For those planning to head away for the long weekend, O’Connor recommended making properties “severe weather ready” beforehand. “Secure loose items, ensure outdoor furniture is stored away, and don’t forget trampolines—high winds can send them flying,” she noted.
The northerly flow is expected to keep temperatures higher than average across eastern parts of Canterbury, Marlborough, Hawkes Bay, and Tairāwhiti. “These areas will experience temperatures about six to eight degrees above average for this time of year, just in time to kick off meteorological winter. Maximum temperatures in the eastern parts of both islands will reach the low-20s,” O’Connor said.
Timaru is already feeling the effects of this warm northerly flow, with temperatures reaching 19 degrees at the airport at 7am on Friday.
In addition to the wind warnings, heavy rain watches have been issued for the Fiordland and Westland ranges, lasting for 12 hours and expiring on Saturday afternoon.
Looking ahead to the long weekend, O’Connor mentioned that Monday is expected to be the best day for weather across the entire country, with mainly fine conditions forecast for most regions
SOURCE: RNZ