Rain: Welcome For Some Upsetting For Others

05-Dec-2007

Rain: Welcome For Some Upsetting For Others

MetService heavy rain warnings are now in force for Coromandel Peninsula, Waikato, Waitomo, Taupo, Taumarunui, the headwaters of the Whanganui River, Rotorua and the Bay of Plenty as a rain band makes its way across the north of the country.

"The meaty part of the rain band is likely to reach Northland and Auckland tonight," commented MetService Weather Ambassador, Bob McDavitt. "On Thursday as it moves onto the central North Island it should interact with cooler air arriving from the southeast resulting in heavy rain. The heavy rain warnings may be extended to cover the Mount Taranaki and Gisborne areas on Thursday or Friday."

Humid conditions will continue in Northland and Auckland during Thursday and Friday. "People in these areas have been alerted to the possibility of thundery downpours, particularly in western parts," said Mr. McDavitt. "We are forecasting that peak intensities of around 40 mm in an hour are likely. This is torrential, and may bring flash flooding and briefly disrupt traffic."

This incoming weather system is also expected to bring some welcome rain to lower parts of the North Island. "This region hasn't seen any rain at all over the past nineteen days," said Mr. McDavitt. "Amounts of around 20 to 50 mm are likely in Hawke's Bay, and lesser amounts further south and west. Farmers and gardeners here will be welcoming every drop."

ENDS

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