NIWA makes predictions for the summer season

If you’re planning to tramp or fish this summer, it may pay to attend a free seminar on summer weather outlooks being held by the National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research at Our City, on 17 November, 2003. NIWA regional co-ordinator for the National Climate Centre, Dr Jim Salinger, will explain factors involved in the atmospheric stew brewing in Christchurch for early summer. He will use the latest seasonal climate predictions at the seminar, to be held at Our City, corner of Worcester Boulevard and Oxford Terrace, from 3.30pm.

Dr Salinger says the weather is vital information for sectors ranging from the agricultural and horticultural, to energy, transport and local government. The tourism industry and holidaying public are also interested in weather.

The Christchurch summer climate is quite variable and can be very dry with droughts, or damp. Variations of heavy rains, drought, high temperature, frost, fire risk, extreme winds, storms and heavy snowfalls impact on Christchurch’s economy and infrastructure. High winds and heavy snowfalls are very significant climate hazards, causing property damage, disruption to transport, flooding and landslips, he says.

Dr Salinger says that neither an El Nino or La Nina pattern was expected this year. This will be his second climate seminar in Christchurch.

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