New Zealand Daily Snow
By Mike O'Connor, Meteorologist Posted 9 months ago October 1, 2024
Foreast More Favourable with Snow for Southern Lakes & Canterbury
Summary
A low-pressure system will bring heavy rain and strong winds to New Zealand on Wednesday and Thursday, with cold southerlies turning it to snow in the lower South Island. Snowfall of 15-30+ cm is possible for the Southern Lakes, and 5-15 cm for Mt Hutt and Craigieburn, though confidence is low. Conditions will turn back to rain by Thursday and ease as the low weakens on Friday and Saturday.
Short Term Forecast
Wednesday & Thursday (2nd & 3rd October)
Wednesday will bring heavy rain and severe gale northwesterlies to the South Island, with a colder southerly change bringing snow to low levels later in the day. Mt Ruapehu will see cloudy, foggy conditions with drizzle turning to rain by evening. On Thursday, snow at South Island resorts will gradually turn to rain as warmer air moves in, while strong southeasterlies affect the Southern Lakes and MacKenzie Basin. Rain and strong winds on Mt Ruapehu will ease throughout the day.
Friday & Saturday (4th & 5th October)
Friday will bring rain to South Island resorts, with snow on mid and upper slopes, clearing later in the day, though visibility will be low. Mt Ruapehu will have a sunny day with a northerly breeze. On Saturday, South Island resorts will be cloudy with scattered showers, snow on upper slopes, and strong north to northeast winds in Canterbury. Mt Ruapehu will see rain and snow up high, with Whakapapa experiencing low visibility due to brisk northerly winds.
Extended Forecast
From Sunday to Tuesday, a strong northwest flow will bring rain and high-level snow. A cold southerly is expected on Wednesday, October 9th, bringing more snow, possibly continuing into Thursday.
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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