Many will be seeking out shade this week as soaring temperatures prompt heat alerts. Photo / Sylvie Whinray
Many will be seeking out shade this week as soaring temperatures prompt heat alerts. Photo / Sylvie Whinray
Heat alerts can be expected this week as temperatures soar in both islands, before a change on Friday brings the threat of heavy downpours this weekend.
Warmer-than-average temperatures are expected for most of the country this week, with heat alerts possible for Thursday.
MetService meteorologist Silvia Martino said afternoon temperatureswere set to climb into the high 20s on Thursday, with some places in Wairarapa and Canterbury potentially cracking 30C; 6 or 7C above average for this time of year.
“It could get uncomfortably hot later in the week, with several spots in the lower North Island set to approach or exceed their heat alert thresholds and overnight temperatures in the high teens not allowing time for recovery.”
Hawke’s Bay and Gisborne may see a “lightning spark or two up in the ranges”, as the heat clashes with an odd shower, however Martino said there would still be plenty of chances to get out and about.
She said beachgoers should enjoy the ideal swimming conditions, but it was a good idea to plan ahead.
“With sea-surface temperatures around much of the North Island’s coastline warmer than average, it’s the perfect time to take advantage of the long summer evenings and squeeze in a swim after school or work.
“Think about timing outdoor activities away from the hottest parts of the day or shifting under cover if you have to be outside and leave plenty of time for shade and water breaks.”
Hot temperatures will make for perfect swimming weather this week. Photo / Hayden Woodward
It’s not all sunshine however, with a Heavy Rain Watch in place for Fiordland until 9pm today, with a moderate chance of it being upgraded to a warning.
MetService says there will be periods of heavy rain with thunderstorms also possible this afternoon.
By Friday, all of the North Island can expert scattered rain, with a close eye being kept on the Eastern Bay of Plenty and Gisborne regions where heavy downpours could prompt an orange rain warning.
The threshold for an orange warning is 100mm of rain in 24 hours, or 50mm in six hours.
MetService is advising people to keep an eye on the forecast for updates as the weekend nears.
