Settled weather to follow wintry end to school holidays

A low pressure system that crossed the country mid-week this week had New Zealanders shivering, giving us a reminder of Winter to end the school holidays.

“A low crossed the country mid-week, followed by cold southerlies, and several fronts moved up over New Zealand from the Southern Ocean,” MetService Meteorologist Claire Flynn explained. “There were Watches and Warnings out for severe gales, heavy rain, and heavy snow for some parts of the country, and most people will have felt a chill in the air.”

Snow fell on many high roads and passes in the South Island and also some in the North Island, leading to dangerous driving conditions and road closures. Milford Road, Desert Road, and Arthur’s Pass were all closed due to snow, and Remutaka Pass saw a few flurries as well. Mt. Hutt recorded a dump of 45 cm of fresh snow.

“After the severe weather that ended the week just gone, we are looking ahead to a much calmer week this week, as high pressure settles in,” Flynn said. “A front will move up the country on Thursday and bring scattered rain or showers. However, with the influence of the high still sitting around over the country, we are not expecting any severe weather with this.”

Despite the largely settled weather this week, Maritime NZ are still taking the time to remind boaties that it is important to check the weather forecast before heading out. This week is Safer Boating Week and all boaties are encouraged to prep their boat, check their gear, and know the rules before heading out on the water. Simple yet critical steps include downloading the MetService marine app and checking the forecast.

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