Squally Thunderstorms

Issued by MetService at 12:48pm 29-Mar-2005

Squally Thunderstorms

MetService meteorologists are forecasting that a low-pressure system deepening in the Tasman Sea may bring squally thunderstorms to northern parts of the North Island during Tuesday night. This low is expected to remain in the Tasman Sea, but its front will move quickly across the North Island overnight and then lie draped over central New Zealand on Wednesday. Associated strong to gale easterly winds are forecast to bring heavy rain on Wednesday into Hawke's Bay and Wairarapa.

"This low-pressure system is bringing two weather problems to the North Island", commented MetService Weather Ambassador, Bob McDavitt. "First, there are the squally thunderstorms over northern parts tonight and Wednesday morning. A map showing these areas is available on the severe thunderstorm page of our web site. Then, when the front stalls on Wednesday, rain may become heavy over the southeast end of the North Island as indicated in our severe weather warnings."

McDavitt added that this system is still evolving. "Those concerned about the weather are able to get the latest weather updates from our web site. The rain is expected to gradually ease from late on Wednesday, and we can look forward to some dry sunny conditions later in the week."

ENDS

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