Spring Rains Arrive On Southern Alps

5-Sep-2005

Spring Rains Arrive On Southern Alps

MetService meteorologists continue to issue heavy rain warnings for the ranges of Westland south of Otira. The heavy rain started arriving over the weekend and is forecast to spread southwards into Fiordland on Tuesday.

"The West Coast Regional Council reported that the rain gauge at Waiho River, near Franz Josef, had 308mm in the 24 hours ending 9am Monday," commented MetService Weather Ambassador, Bob McDavitt. "There is also a good spill-over of rain across the divide with 66mm measured at Arthur's Pass on Sunday. The frontal system that is bringing this rain has stalled and is waiting for a low pressure system to wander across Southland on Tuesday. Rain is easing today, but should be heavy again on Tuesday and ease again on Wednesday."

This sort of warm spring rain causes rapidly rising creek and river levels. People in the affected area are advised to stay up to date with the latest forecasts.

ENDS

© Scoop Media