Heavy Rain and Intense Heat Forecast Across South Island

Over the weekend, New Zealand’s South Island will experience wet weather accompanied by warmer-than-usual temperatures. A front, preceded by strong gale northwesterlies, is due to bring heavy rain to western and southern parts of the South Island.

Heavy Rain Forecast

• Westland is forecast to receive up to 400mm through Friday until Saturday afternoon.
• Grey and Buller districts are forecast to receive 150mm early Saturday morning through Saturday.

MetService issued orange heavy rain warnings for Westland, Fiordland north of George Sound, the Canterbury headwaters south of Arthur’s Pass and the Otago headwaters from the early hours of Friday morning into Saturday. Rain watches were also in place for the Grey District, parts of Fiordland and Southland.

Weather Conditions

MetService meteorologist Lewis Ferris stated that it would be quite wet and windy for the rest of Friday and Saturday, especially in the western parts of the South Island. He explained that a strong stream of moisture coming from the Tasman Sea brings humidity across the country.

Impact on Areas

The West Coast Emergency Management is closely monitoring the situation, with Claire Brown stating that it was not unusual for these areas to receive such amounts of rainfall. However, she emphasized the need to be prepared, particularly for the Westland district.

High Temperatures

The warm weather will continue in the south, with temperatures expected to reach 30C in Hastings and 29C for Napier on Saturday. Canterbury and Hawke’s Bay are predicted to experience unusual high temperatures this time of year.

Impact on North Island

On Sunday, a band of rain is forecast to move across the North Island, bringing heavy rain in some areas. However, the intensity of rain will be lower than what the South Island will experience over the weekend.

Preparation and Safety

Residents are advised to stay informed and take necessary precautions during this weather event. Emergency services remind everyone to prepare for potential flooding and landslides in affected areas, especially those living near rivers and coastal regions.

As always, be sure to check MetService for the latest updates on weather conditions across New Zealand.