New Zealand Daily Snow
By Mike O'Connor, Meteorologist Posted 9 months ago September 9, 2024
More Snow in the Mix as Wild Spring Pattern Persists
Summary
Recent weather has diminished New Zealand's snowpack, especially in Canterbury, where some resorts are struggling or closed. The Southern Lakes could see 10-30cm of snow early this week, while Canterbury will have minimal snow. Conditions improve Wednesday, but strong winds return Thursday. Mt Ruapehu remains with limited terrain due to low snow levels.
Short Term Forecast
Monday & Tuesday (9th & 10th September)
A front on Monday will bring rain and high-level snow to the South Island, with severe gale-force northwesterlies in exposed areas. Heavy snow in the Southern Lakes will ease to showers by evening, and Canterbury will see heavy falls in the afternoon, clearing later. Mt Ruapehu will stay mostly clear above the clouds as winds shift northwest.
Another front on Tuesday brings heavy snow to low levels in the Southern Lakes, easing by midday and clearing by evening. Canterbury will have severe northwest winds with snow in the Mackenzie Basin and lighter rain/snow at Mt Hutt, clearing by evening. Mt Ruapehu will be clear up high, with clouds and drizzle lower down and strong westerly winds.
Wednesday & Thursday (11th & 12th September)
It will be cloudy for the Southern Lakes on Wednesday as westerly winds shift northwest and strengthen. Canterbury will be mostly sunny with winds turning northwest. Morning clouds at Mt Ruapehu will clear, leading to a fine day as southerly winds ease.
Strong northwesterlies on Thursday for the Southern Lakes and Mackenzie Basin, with showers of rain and high-level snow at Treble Cone and Ohau. Elsewhere in Canterbury, expect strong winds and high cloud. Mt Ruapehu will remain sunny as westerly breezes turn northwest.
Extended Forecast
Thanks for reading. I'll continue to provide these forecasts every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday throughout the southern hemisphere season.
Mike O'Connor
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