New Zealand braces for heavy rain and polar air

What Happened

MetService has issued warnings for heavy rain expected to affect Northland and the eastern Bay of Plenty. A front moving eastward across the northern and central North Island is forecast to bring this rainfall on Sunday and early Monday. An orange rain warning is in place for the ranges of eastern Bay of Plenty, anticipating 70 to 90mm of rain with peak rates of 10 to 20mm/h over a 12-hour period from Sunday afternoon to early Monday morning. This could lead to rapidly rising streams and rivers, surface flooding, slips, and difficult driving conditions.

Additionally, a yellow rain watch is in effect for the north and east of Northland, where periods of heavy rain may approach warning levels. There is a low risk of localized downpours reaching 25 to 40mm/h in these areas. MetService may upgrade this watch to a warning.

Separately, a burst of polar air is anticipated to move across New Zealand starting this weekend. While weaker than a previous cold snap, this southerly flow is expected to bring wintry conditions, particularly to the eastern parts of the country, with potential for snow on hills and ranges.

Key Facts

• MetService issued an orange rain warning for the eastern Bay of Plenty ranges from Sunday 3pm to Monday 3am.
• This warning forecasts 70 to 90mm of rain, with hourly rates of 10 to 20mm/h.
• MetService issued a yellow rain watch for north and east of Northland until Sunday 8pm.
• This watch anticipates periods of heavy rain, with a low chance of localized downpours reaching 25 to 40mm/h.
• A polar air blast is expected to affect New Zealand from Sunday into Monday.

Background

Both forecasts were issued on Sunday and are subject to updates. Authorities advise avoiding low-lying areas and driving cautiously due to the potential for adverse conditions.