Heat alerts are in effect for parts of the Bay of Plenty as New Zealand heads into a warm long weekend. Forecasters predict hot days and little relief from the heat overnight, particularly for Whakatāne.
Whakatāne Expected to Experience the Hottest Conditions
MetService meteorologist Alec Holden stated that Whakatāne is expected to be most affected by the heat, with alerts issued for both Saturday and Sunday. Temperatures in Whakatāne are forecast to reach approximately 30C, with overnight lows only dropping to around 18C, according to Holden.
The heat is attributed to settled weather, strong sunshine, and warmer, drier winds originating inland. Holden described the conditions as “a remarkably warm day, and a very hot night.”
Tauranga Also Facing Elevated Temperatures
Tauranga is also expected to experience similar conditions, with temperatures peaking around 29C in the coming days. While temperatures in Tauranga are just below the threshold for a heat alert, residents are still advised to take precautions due to the “hot and humid” conditions.
Residents in affected areas are advised to seek shade and limit strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest parts of the day.
Regional Forecasts
Generally settled conditions are expected across the rest of the North Island, with scattered cloud in the mornings and evenings. Showers are forecast for parts of the East Coast, including Wairarapa, Hawke’s Bay, and sections of the Waikato and Waitomo coastline starting Sunday.
The South Island is forecast to experience wetter conditions, particularly in the far south on Saturday, where the heaviest rain is expected. This rain is predicted to move northwards over the weekend, gradually weakening as it spreads. Christchurch is expected to be mostly cloudy today and tomorrow, with other parts of the South Island experiencing periods of rain followed by drier weather.
Frequently Asked Questions
What areas are under a heat alert?
Heat alerts have been issued for parts of the Bay of Plenty, specifically for Whakatāne on Saturday and Sunday.
What temperatures are forecast for Whakatāne?
Whakatāne is expected to reach around 30C during the day, with overnight temperatures dropping to approximately 18C.
What is the forecast for the South Island?
Wetter conditions are forecast for the South Island, particularly the far south on Saturday, with rain expected to move northwards and weaken over the weekend.
As temperatures rise and conditions shift across the country, how will residents adapt their weekend plans to stay safe and comfortable?
