Severe Weather Heading to South Island

Issued at 02:34pm 09-Aug-2007
Severe Weather Heading to South Island

MetService meteorologists have issued wind and rain warnings for much of the South Island for Friday and Saturday. A very deep depression over the Southern Ocean is expected to maintain a broad swathe of west to northwest winds over New Zealand for the next few days.

"It has been a while since South Islander's have had such a vigorous northwester, so this one may surprise some people with its intensity," commented MetService Weather Ambassador, Bob McDavitt. "Our warnings are currently forecasting rain amounts of 250 to 350mm in the Westland ranges during Friday and Saturday, and wind gusts of 120 km/hr for exposed inland parts of Southland, Otago and Canterbury."

"Anyone who is planning a tramping trip or a visit to the great outdoors will now need to seriously consider the impact of this wind and rain on their activities." The rain amounts in the forecast are unusually large and will cause significant spillover into the headwaters of Otago and Canterbury rivers. The forecast severe wind gusts have the potential to cause damage to powerlines, trees and roofs, and to make driving condition hazardous especially for motorcyclists or high-sided vehicles.

Mr. McDavitt added that the severe wind and rain is also likely to move onto southern parts of the North Island on Saturday or Sunday. "If you are planning something special over the weekend then please check the weather forecast first."

ENDS

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