A series of fast-moving weather systems are expected to bring rain and “blustery” westerlies across much of New Zealand in the last week of winter, MetService says.
Meanwhile, the westerlies are expected to bring warmer days to the east of the country.
Heavy rain caused havoc in the lower North Island earlier today, including flooding and slips throughout parts of the Wellington region. A rainy weather system continues to drape across the centre of the country, prompting heavy rain watches and warnings.
MetService meteorologist Mmathapelo Makgabutlane said the rain wasn’t over just yet for sodden parts of Wellington and Kapiti.
“Within the period of persistent rain, there could be bursts of more intense falls, possibly leading to further impacts,” she said in a media release.
Over the next few days, the westerlies are expected to bring heavy rain, particularly in the western South Island as well as elevated parts of the North Island.
“The belt from Fiordland to Tasman will see little respite as weather systems cycle through, giving soils minimal time to dry out before the next wave hits.”
A heavy rain watch is in place for Buller on Tuesday, with more “likely for other areas later in the week,” according to MetService.
The forecaster said breezy westerlies would start to become a “noticeable feature” as New Zealand enters the windiest part of the year.
“It will likely feel breezy for many of us, especially in the South Island and eastern and lower North Island,” Makgabutlane said.
“It’s a good time to secure any loose items so they don’t end up in the neighbour’s yard!”
The westerlies will also expected to bring warmer temperatures to the east, with some regions likely to see temperatures in the upper teens – possibly reaching 20C or higher.
“This could be the longest stretch of August days at or above 20C for Napier,” Makgabutlane said.
She added the warmer weather looks to extend into the night as well, with double-digit minimum temperatures expected in the North Island and parts of the South Island.