Cooler Temperatures Follow Severe Weather - 01 Feb 2018

Cooler Temperatures Follow Severe Weather - 01 Feb 2018

MetService News Release
01 Feb 2018

High temperatures were the story of January, with temperature records broken across New Zealand. However, February is starting in a much more unsettled vein. The remnants of Tropical Cyclone Fehi, crossing the South Island today, are delivering plenty of severe weather across the country.

MetService Meteorologist John Law said, “It’s a very windy and wet start to the month for many parts of New Zealand. Although the heaviest rainfall is expected over Westland and Fiordland, there are plenty of Severe Weather Watches and Warnings in force across the country.”

Along with strong winds, bursts of heavy rain and thunderstorms are likely today, especially for the west of New Zealand. MetService is advising everyone to stay up to date with the latest forecasts on the metservice.com website and app.

Although the weather is set to improve for Friday, temperatures will take a tumble as this system pulls away to the south.

Law explained, “For much of January we sat beneath a very warm, humid air mass. Once this system pulls away, however, we find our winds swinging back to the south and bringing the return of much cooler, less humid air.”

While the return of cooler air will be welcomed by many, those heading out into the back country over the Waitangi Day long weekend should be especially aware of the swing in temperatures.

“Anyone planning a tramp, sail or kayak should keep a close eye on the forecasts this weekend, and make sure you’ve got extra layers of clothing with you,” recommended Law.

The returning southwesterlies will also bring some showers across New Zealand for the weekend and for Te rā o Waitangi, Waitangi Day.

“It’s going to be feeling a lot cooler this weekend and into Waitangi Day. While we still have some showers in the mix, there will be plenty of sunny spells too, especially along the west coast and for the Bay of Plenty,” added Law.

Keep up to date with the latest forecasts and any watches/warnings at metservice.com or on mobile devices at m.metservice.com. You can also follow our updates on MetService TV, at MetService New Zealand on Facebook, @metservice and @MetServiceWARN on Twitter and at blog.metservice.com

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