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How a ‘significant’ El Niño could affect NZ’s winter

by Chief Editor
written by Chief Editor

El Niño Watch: New Zealand Braces for a Shifting Weather Pattern

New Zealand is preparing for a significant shift in weather patterns with the anticipated arrival of a “formidable” El Niño event this winter. Meteorologists are closely monitoring the developing conditions, forecasting potential impacts ranging from increased rainfall in the South Island to drier conditions in the north and east.

From Instagram — related to South Island, Southern Oscillation

What is El Niño and Why Does it Matter?

El Niño and La Niña are opposing phases of the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO), a natural climate cycle driven by changes in sea surface temperatures and atmospheric pressure across the tropical Pacific Ocean. During an El Niño event, warmer-than-average temperatures develop in the central and eastern Pacific, disrupting typical wind patterns and influencing rainfall distribution globally.

Forecast: A Tale of Two Islands

Earth Sciences New Zealand, formed from the merger of GNS Science and Niwa, reports a “clear consensus” among global climate models predicting an El Niño event this winter. There is a greater than 60% probability that the event will be classified as “strong” by spring, with the possibility of further intensification later in the year.

According to Earth Sciences New Zealand and MetService meteorologist Jon Tunster, the anticipated atmospheric response to this El Niño could strengthen high-pressure systems over Australia, leading to a south-westerly flow over New Zealand. This pattern is expected to bring increased rainfall to Southland, parts of Otago, and western areas of the South Island. Conversely, the east of both islands and the upper North Island could experience reduced rainfall, potentially leading to dryness as spring approaches.

Beyond Rainfall: What Else to Expect

While a colder-than-average winter nationwide is not currently predicted, occasional cold snaps lasting a few days are possible, particularly in inland parts of the South Island where cold air can linger. Tunster notes that the developing El Niño is supported by “multiple indicators,” including a steady eastward movement of warm water beneath the Pacific Ocean’s surface – a precursor to significant El Niño events.

How will El Niño and La Niña affect Washington's winter?

The impacts of this El Niño are not limited to New Zealand. The developing climate pattern is as well expected to influence major international weather systems, including the Indian monsoon and the North Pacific storm track.

Preparing for a Changing Climate

The rapid shift from La Niña to El Niño highlights the dynamic nature of our climate. Understanding these patterns and their potential impacts is crucial for effective planning and mitigation. Farmers, in particular, may require to adjust irrigation strategies based on regional rainfall forecasts. Local councils are also preparing for potential impacts on infrastructure and emergency management.

Preparing for a Changing Climate
El Ni La Southern Oscillation
Pro Tip: Stay informed about the latest weather forecasts and advisories from MetService and Earth Sciences New Zealand. Regularly updated information will help you make informed decisions and prepare for changing conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

  • What is the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO)? It’s a natural climate cycle driven by ocean temperatures and atmospheric pressure in the tropical Pacific.
  • How often do El Niño events occur? El Niño events typically occur every 2-7 years.
  • Will this El Niño cause extreme weather events? While not guaranteed, El Niño can increase the likelihood of certain extreme weather events, such as heavy rainfall and droughts.
  • Where can I find more information? Visit the Earth Sciences New Zealand website (https://earthsciences.nz/) and the MetService website (https://www.metservice.com/) for the latest updates.

Do you have questions about the upcoming El Niño and its potential impact on your region? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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Calls for NZTA boss to front up over SH3 closures

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

Local government leaders are demanding urgent action from the NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) following “ongoing and unacceptable disruptions” to the northern corridor between New Plymouth and Te Kuiti. The call for intervention comes after a massive slip in the Awakino Gorge closed State Highway 3 on April 18.

Urgent Demands for Leadership

New Plymouth mayor Max Brough has urged NZTA chief executive Brett Gliddon to meet with regional leaders in Taranaki within 10 working days. This request was sent via email and included leaders from Taranaki, Waitomo, Ruapehu, Ōtorohanga and Waipa.

Mayor Brough stated that the scale of the impact and regional concern make this discussion a priority. The proposed itinerary includes a meeting in New Plymouth, a site visit to affected areas, and a discussion on next steps.

Did You Know? The Awakino Gorge has been closed seven times over the last 12 months due to weather-related incidents.

Economic Isolation and “Ghost Towns”

The closure has had a severe impact on regional connectivity and local commerce. Waitomo mayor John Robertson noted that New Plymouth businesses are effectively isolated, particularly affecting truck traffic moving toward Auckland, and Hamilton.

From Instagram — related to State Highway, John Robertson

In the South Waikato settlement of Mōkau, the situation has been described as a “ghost town” and “dead as a doornail.” Local butcher Bryan Lester reported serving only three customers on a Wednesday between 7 a.m. And 3:30 p.m.

Similarly, Nic Phillips, owner of Nic’s Latte and Grill, closed her caravan on a Thursday due to the lack of traffic. Phillips described the Awakino Gorge as a “choke point,” noting that when rocks fall, there is no way north for traffic.

Expert Insight: This situation highlights a critical vulnerability in regional infrastructure. When primary corridors like State Highway 3 fail simultaneously with secondary bypasses—such as the Forgotten Highway—the result is total economic paralysis for small settlements, transforming a transport issue into a humanitarian and commercial crisis.

The Cost of Resilience

Mayor Robertson emphasized the necessitate for a road that can withstand severe weather, suggesting that tens of millions of dollars may be required to fix this specific section. He pointed to the $800 million Crown investment in Mount Messenger as an example of the scale of work needed on the highway.

While some have discussed a coastal route to the west, Robertson noted such an option would be “massively expensive.” He called on the NZTA to present viable options for long-term sustainability.

Waka Kotahi’s Response

Waka Kotahi has stated it is acutely aware of the impact on communities and businesses. The agency reported that crews are working to reopen the road, which is not expected to be accessible until May 2 at the earliest.

Current efforts include excavating a 50-metre-long bench on the hillside to capture falling debris. Crews are also clearing between 12,000 and 16,000 cubic metres of material from the largest slip, while simultaneously clearing drains and culverts.

NZTA Regional Relationships Director Linda Stewart told RNZ’s Morning Report that road maintenance is becoming more challenging as severe weather events increase. She noted that while the Awakino tunnel bypass was completed, continued investment is a “balancing act” for the nation.

CEO Brett Gliddon has confirmed he is keen to meet with the mayors, and a date for a visit in May is currently being finalised.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is State Highway 3 expected to reopen?

The road is not expected to reopen until May 2 at the earliest.

Why are bypass routes not solving the problem?

According to Waitomo mayor John Robertson, the primary bypass route via the Forgotten Highway (State Highway 43) was also closed by the severe weather event.

What specific work is being done to clear the slip?

Crews are clearing 12,000 to 16,000 cubic metres of material from the main slip and excavating a 50-metre hillside bench to capture future debris.

Do you believe the government should prioritise expensive long-term bypasses over repeated short-term repairs in weather-prone corridors?

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Ōhura’s locals face long recovery as emergency declaration lifted

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

A local state of emergency has been lifted for the remote King Country settlement of Ōhura, though residents face a grueling recovery process after devastating floodwaters swept through the town. While the official emergency declaration has ended, many locals remain displaced from their homes a week after the deluge.

A Harrowing Escape

The flooding struck in the early hours of last Sunday morning, creating an “absolutely horrifying” ordeal for the community. Some residents were forced to escape through chest-high waters to reach safety.

Ruapehu civil defence controller Clive Manley noted that while some people were trapped in their vehicles and several cars were lost, no injuries were reported. Manley described the experience of reaching a safe place as “extremely harrowing” for those affected.

Did You Know? A mayoral relief fund has been established to support the community, starting with $50,000 in council funds.

Extensive Property and Agricultural Loss

The scale of the damage is significant, with approximately 50 homes damaged and six rendered completely uninhabitable. For those most affected, the flooding destroyed essential belongings, including furniture and whiteware.

From Instagram — related to Manley, Extensive

The impact extended beyond the town center to local farms. Manley reported that some farms lost access due to slips, suffered damaged fences and experienced stock loss.

Expert Insight: The situation in Ōhura highlights the acute vulnerability of remote settlements. When primary access roads are severed by slips and flooding, these communities become entirely dependent on localized recovery efforts and the speed of infrastructure repair to restore essential services.

The Path to Recovery

Recovery efforts are currently focused on returning residents to safe housing. The council has been pumping out septic tanks and installing de-humidifiers to dry out sodden floors and carpets.

Residents have spent the past week scraping silt and sludge from their properties and searching for animals that disappeared in the floodwaters. Extensive roading works are also required to repair slips throughout the network.

Financial Aid and Next Steps

The council is currently assessing the total cost of the damage and the recovery required. While the mayoral relief fund is active, the government has been asked to contribute to the fund, though it has not yet commented on whether it will do so.

Aliamanu burn victims face long road to recovery

Manley has also appealed to the general public for donations to help replace destroyed clothing and whiteware. Depending on the response, additional community support may be necessary to assist those who have “lost everything.”

Frequently Asked Questions

How many homes were damaged in the Ōhura flooding?

About 50 homes were damaged, with six of those being uninhabitable.

How many homes were damaged in the Ōhura flooding?
Manley Extensive Recovery

Were there any casualties during the event?

No one was injured, although some people were trapped in cars and several vehicles were lost.

What specific help is the council providing to residents?

The council has installed de-humidifiers to dry out homes and has been pumping out septic tanks.

How can remote communities better prepare for the risk of becoming completely cut off during extreme weather events?

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Claims triple to country’s biggest insurer

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

New Zealand has experienced a significant increase in severe weather, with storms hitting the country every eight days on average over the past year. This surge in activity has caused insurance claims for the nation’s largest insurer to more than triple.

Rising Frequency of Severe Weather

Data from a Wild Weather Tracker revealed that 46 storms occurred between March 2025 and the end of February this year. These events, defined as damaging weather driven by intense rainfall or strong winds, resulted in more than 33,000 storm-related claims covering wind, flood, rain, and other damages.

The trend reflects a long-term shift in climate patterns. Over a 15-year period, the frequency of these damaging events has climbed from approximately one per month to between three and four per month.

Did You Know? Over the last 15 years, the frequency of damaging weather events in New Zealand has increased from about one storm per month to three or four per month.

Impact of the Southland Storm

The most severe event during this period was the October 2025 storm in Southland. Ferocious winds toppled power lines and trees, leaving numerous homes without electricity for several days.

Impact of the Southland Storm
New Zealand Zealand Southland

This single event prompted more than 5,000 claims across three insurance brands underwritten by IAG: AMI, State, and NZI.

A Shift in Seasonal Patterns

There is evidence of a shift in overall climate patterns, with an increasing number of severe weather events now occurring during the summer and spring months.

Expert Insight: The mismatch between rising public anxiety and a fragmented national response suggests that New Zealand is currently operating on a reactive model. The transition from simply responding to events to reducing risk upfront is a critical pivot that could determine the long-term viability of insurance availability for the general population.

Public Concern and the Call for Systemic Change

Public awareness of climate change risks is growing, though it is accompanied by significant stress. Almost 60% of people surveyed reported experiencing storm-related anxiety.

What Are the World's Biggest Insurance Claims Ever Made?

This concern is translating into action; the number of respondents who have taken steps to protect their homes from natural hazards doubled from 40 in a 2022 survey to 805 in the most recent data. 75% of New Zealanders seek to see increased investment in managing these risks.

The Demand for a Coherent Strategy

IAG climate spokesperson Bryce Davies described the current national response as “ad hoc” and “fragmented,” stating that the country lacks a coherent system for managing natural hazard risk.

Davies called for a “systemic response” that focuses on hotspots and provides councils with the necessary funding, guidance, and planning laws to act. Similarly, Insurance Council chief executive Kris Faafoi has highlighted the need for greater government urgency regarding the funding of climate adaptation.

Future Outlook

If a coherent response is established, it may make the process of offering insurance to as many people as possible for a longer duration more sustainable. A possible next step could involve the implementation of updated planning laws and targeted funding for high-risk areas to reduce risk upfront.

Future Outlook
New Zealand Zealand Southland

Frequently Asked Questions

How often have storms occurred in New Zealand recently?

On average, a storm has hit New Zealand every eight days over the last year, with 46 storms recorded between March 2025 and the end of February.

Which specific event caused the most damage?

The October 2025 storm in Southland was the most damaging event, leading to more than 5,000 claims among AMI, State, and NZI customers.

What is being requested from the government and authorities?

There are calls for a “systemic response,” including greater urgency in funding climate adaptation, improved planning laws, and better guidance to enable councils to manage natural hazard risks.

Do you experience your local community is sufficiently prepared for the increasing frequency of severe weather events?

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States of local emergency in Whanganui, Ōhura as heavy rain hits

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

Severe weather has triggered two states of local emergency across the Manawatū-Whanganui region. Heavy rain has led to widespread flooding, landslides, and the closure of critical state highways overnight.

Whanganui District Mayor Andrew Tripe declared a state of local emergency for the district at 6:57 am on Sunday. This followed a similar declaration made by the Ruapehu District Council for the Ōhura Ward at 3:21 am.

Emergency Evacuations and Local Impacts

In the town of Ōhura, six residents were forced to evacuate their homes overnight. The Ōhura Memorial Hall has been opened to serve as a Civil Defence Centre.

Local resident Mike Crowley described the event as a “real cracker flash flood,” noting that water was knee-deep at his property and waist-deep or more on Tongaporutu Rd.

Civil Defence has warned that low-lying areas of Whanganui, including the suburb of Putiki, Taupo Quay, and Anzac Parade, could face flooding. Staff have begun door-knocking in these areas to prepare residents for possible evacuations.

Did You Know? In the Ruapehu District, approximately 100mm of rain fell within a single 24-hour period, contributing to the severe flash flooding.

Emergency evacuation centres are scheduled to open at Whanganui Girls’ College in Whanganui East and St Paul’s Church on Guyton St. Residents in Owhango have been asked to conserve water due to high turbidity in the town’s raw water source.

Infrastructure and Transport Disruptions

State Highway 3 remains closed through the Awakino Gorge after overnight rain caused further flooding and slips. NZTA crews are currently using trucks and excavators to clear the lanes.

An NZTA spokesperson confirmed that 25 truckloads of material have already been removed from the first kilometre of the gorge, though more material still needs to be cleared.

Expert Insight: The simultaneous impact across multiple regions—from the Manawatū-Whanganui emergency zones to the tornado damage in Tauranga—suggests a highly volatile atmospheric pattern. The reliance on temporary flood barriers and door-knocking evacuations highlights the immediate pressure on local civil defence resources when infrastructure is overwhelmed by rapid-onset flooding.

Tornado Damage in Tauranga

Further north, Tauranga experienced severe weather and a tornado that caused significant property damage and power outages. PowerCo reported that 75 properties in Welcome Bay lost electricity.

Tauranga City Council has closed Tye Park due to fallen trees, along with Hamilton St and Devonport Rd. Welcome Bay Rd is as well shut from the Hot Pools to Tauranga Waldorf School, a closure that is likely to remain in place into tomorrow.

Reports indicate damage to houses, including an instance where a cabin was blown onto a car in Welcome Bay. Residents have been urged to check on friends, neighbours, and whānau.

Wellington Flash Flooding Context

These events follow intense flash flooding in Wellington yesterday, which forced the closure of sections of several state highways. Wellington Region Emergency Management confirmed that one home in Porirua and 25 homes in the suburb of Stokes Valley were evacuated.

State of emergency declared in Whanganui District

Stokes Valley residents described a sudden downpour where up to 40mm of rain fell in one hour. This caused drains and manholes to fail, sending muddy water through garages, driveways, and backyards.

Weather Forecast and Outlook

MetService has issued an orange heavy rain warning for the eastern Bay of Plenty, with 80 to 110mm of rain expected east of the Whakatane River between 6 am and 4 pm.

Heavy rain watches are also in place for parts of South Canterbury, Gisborne, and Auckland. Forecasters indicate that unsettled conditions are being driven by a front followed by several active troughs.

Depending on the movement of these troughs, there is a moderate chance that current watches could be upgraded to warnings. Multiple agencies remain on standby as Horizons modelling suggests further flood protection assets may be required.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can Whanganui residents go for emergency shelter?

Emergency evacuation centres will open at St Paul’s Church on Guyton St and Whanganui Girls’ College in Whanganui East.

From Instagram — related to Whanganui, Tauranga

What caused the power outages in Tauranga’s Welcome Bay?

According to lines company PowerCo, the outages affecting 75 properties were caused by a tornado.

Why are Owhango residents being asked to conserve water?

Residents have been asked to conserve water as of high turbidity found in the town’s raw water source.

How does your local community prepare for sudden flash flooding events?

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World

Queensland Tropical Cyclone Narelle deemed ‘compact’ and dangerous

by Chief Editor
written by Chief Editor

Cyclone Narelle: A Glimpse into the Future of Tropical Storms

Tropical Cyclone Narelle, currently a Category 5 storm off the coast of Far North Queensland, isn’t just a weather event. it’s a potential harbinger of things to come. Although cyclones impacting Australia are not uncommon, Narelle’s characteristics – its compact size, predictable path, and rapid intensification – offer valuable insights into evolving storm patterns.

The Rise of ‘Compact’ Cyclones

Narelle is described as a “compact” cyclone, meaning the area of intense winds around its center is relatively small. This isn’t necessarily a sign of reduced danger. In fact, smaller cyclones can intensify rapidly due to physical laws governing their spin. Cyclone Tracy in 1974, despite its limited gale-force wind area, devastated Darwin, highlighting the concentrated power of these storms.

The intensity of Narelle, with sustained winds near 205km/h and gusts up to 285km/h, underscores the potential for significant damage even from a compact system. The concentration of force means a direct hit can be catastrophic.

Unusual Predictability in a Chaotic System

Traditionally, cyclones forming in the Coral Sea are notoriously difficult to predict. Their paths are often influenced by changeable winds. Although, Narelle has followed a remarkably predictable westward track. Here’s attributed to a persistent, deep subtropical ridge of high pressure over eastern Australia and the Coral Sea, acting as a “conveyor belt” steering the storm.

This predictability, while offering valuable time for preparation, doesn’t diminish the threat. The consistent steering pattern suggests a potential for similar scenarios in the future, where established atmospheric conditions dictate cyclone paths.

Rapid Intensification: A Growing Concern

Sea surface temperatures in the Coral Sea are currently 0.5–1.0°C above average, contributing to Narelle’s rapid intensification. Warmer ocean temperatures provide more energy for cyclones, fueling their growth and increasing their intensity. This trend of warming waters is directly linked to climate change and is expected to exacerbate the intensity of future storms.

Narelle’s quick escalation from a tropical low to a Category 5 cyclone demonstrates this phenomenon. The ability of cyclones to rapidly intensify poses a significant challenge for forecasting and preparedness.

The Historical Echo of Cyclone Mahina

The potential for dangerous storm tides in Princess Charlotte Bay is a serious concern, drawing parallels to Cyclone Mahina in 1899. Mahina remains Australia’s deadliest recorded tropical cyclone, and likely one of the most intense globally. The geographical similarities between the two storms highlight the vulnerability of this region to catastrophic storm surges.

Narelle’s Journey: From Cape York to the Northern Territory

Current forecasts predict Narelle will cross Cape York as a Category 4 cyclone, weakening to a Category 2 as it moves over land. However, it’s expected to re-intensify over the warm waters of the Gulf of Carpentaria before heading towards the eastern Northern Territory. This journey illustrates the complex lifecycle of a cyclone and the potential for multiple landfalls and impacts.

While Narelle is expected to weaken after crossing the Northern Territory, it may re-intensify off the Kimberley coast. The speed of the cyclone is expected to limit the amount of rainfall over swollen catchments, but river rises are still forecast.

What Makes Coral Sea Cyclones Unique?

The behavior of cyclones in the Coral Sea is influenced by steering winds at different altitudes. Narelle’s deep vertical structure allows it to be propelled by stronger winds higher in the troposphere. This, combined with the persistent high-pressure ridge, explains its predictable westward path. Understanding these atmospheric dynamics is crucial for improving cyclone forecasting.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is a Category 5 cyclone? A Category 5 cyclone has sustained winds of 220km/h or higher, capable of causing extremely widespread and severe damage.
  • What does ‘rapid intensification’ mean? Rapid intensification refers to a cyclone’s sustained wind speed increasing by at least 55km/h in a 24-hour period.
  • How does climate change affect cyclones? Warmer ocean temperatures provide more energy for cyclones, potentially leading to more intense storms and increased rainfall.
  • Why is Narelle’s path considered unusual? Coral Sea cyclones are typically difficult to predict, but Narelle has followed a remarkably consistent westward track due to a strong high-pressure system.

Pro Tip: Stay informed about cyclone warnings and evacuation orders from the Bureau of Meteorology and local authorities. Prepare an emergency kit with essential supplies, including food, water, medication, and a first-aid kit.

Did you know? Cyclone Larry in 2006, like Narelle, followed a predictable westward path, causing significant damage to Innisfail and surrounding areas.

Stay vigilant, stay informed, and prioritize safety as Tropical Cyclone Narelle continues its path. Understanding the dynamics of this storm and the broader trends in cyclone behavior is crucial for building resilience in the face of a changing climate.

Explore Further: Visit the Bureau of Meteorology website for the latest cyclone updates and warnings: https://www.bom.gov.au/

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World

Queensland town awaits fury as cyclone upgraded to category five

by Chief Editor
written by Chief Editor

Monster Cyclone Narelle: A Glimpse into Queensland’s Increasingly Vulnerable Future

Far North Queensland is bracing for the impact of Cyclone Narelle, a category 5 system packing wind gusts up to 285km/h. This isn’t just another storm; it’s a stark reminder of the escalating challenges posed by increasingly intense cyclones in a changing climate. Premier David Crisafulli has described the potential impact as the biggest “in living memory,” and the situation demands attention.

The Intensification of Cyclonic Activity: A Troubling Trend

The rapid intensification of Cyclone Narelle – upgraded to a category 5 in a matter of hours – is becoming a worrying pattern. While cyclones have always been a feature of the Australian landscape, the frequency of high-intensity systems appears to be increasing. Narelle will be the first category 5 storm to hit Queensland since Cyclone Marcia in 2015.

This trend isn’t isolated to Queensland. Across the globe, warmer ocean temperatures are providing more energy for cyclones to develop and intensify. The potential for more frequent and powerful storms is a direct consequence of climate change, and Australia is particularly vulnerable.

Evacuations and Preparedness: A Race Against Time

Approximately 500 people are being evacuated from the remote Gulf of Carpentaria community of Numbulwar in the Northern Territory, highlighting the logistical challenges of preparing for and responding to these events. Evacuations are complex, costly, and disruptive, but often necessary to protect lives. Resources, including 49 police officers, 74 fire and rescue crews, and 20 paramedics, have been deployed to remote communities.

The current focus is on ensuring residents between Lockhart River and Coen are prepared. The storm is expected to make landfall near Coen, north of Cairns, on Friday morning. The speed of Narelle, currently travelling at 26km/h, means the window for final preparations is rapidly closing.

Beyond Queensland: A Multi-State Threat

The impact of Cyclone Narelle isn’t limited to Queensland. After crossing Cape York, the storm is forecast to move into the Northern Territory’s Top End and potentially the Kimberley coast of Western Australia. This broad geographical reach underscores the need for coordinated disaster preparedness across multiple jurisdictions.

The Economic Costs of Increasing Cyclonic Activity

The economic consequences of increasingly intense cyclones are substantial. Damage to infrastructure, agriculture, and tourism can run into billions of dollars. Beyond the immediate costs of recovery, there are long-term impacts on communities and regional economies. The disruption to supply chains and essential services can also have cascading effects.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has affirmed the Commonwealth’s commitment to providing assistance to both Queensland and the Northern Territory, recognizing the scale of the potential disaster.

FAQ: Cyclone Narelle and Future Preparedness

  • What category is Cyclone Narelle currently? Category 5.
  • Where is Cyclone Narelle expected to make landfall? Near Coen, north of Cairns, in Far North Queensland.
  • What is the current threat to the Northern Territory? Evacuations are underway in Numbulwar, with the storm expected to impact the Top End.
  • Is climate change contributing to more intense cyclones? Yes, warmer ocean temperatures provide more energy for cyclone development and intensification.

Pro Tip: Stay informed about emergency warnings through the ABC Emergency website, ABC Radio, and the Bureau of Meteorology website. Have an emergency plan in place and ensure you have essential supplies.

Did you know? Cyclone Narelle is the tenth named tropical cyclone in the Australian region this season.

Stay safe and informed as Cyclone Narelle unfolds. For the latest updates and emergency information, please refer to official sources. Share this information with your friends and family in affected areas.

Explore more articles on disaster preparedness and climate change on our website. Learn more here.

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‘Busy 36 hours ahead’, Far North records 131km/h wind gust

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

New Zealand is bracing for a period of unsettled weather as two weather systems converge, prompting heavy rain watches across much of the country. MetService reports that the next 36 hours will be “busy” with approaching fronts.

Weather Systems Converge

A low of tropical origin currently lies north of New Zealand, with an associated front moving south over the upper North Island today and Friday. Simultaneously, a front approaching from the south Tasman Sea is expected to reach Fiordland late tonight and move north over the South Island during Friday.

Did You Recognize? The strongest wind gust recorded in the past 24 hours was 131km/h, measured in Opouteke, Northland.

MetService meteorologist Heather Keats stated that both systems are expected to bring heavy rain. Heavy rain watches have been issued for the Coromandel Peninsula, Bay of Plenty west of Kawerau, the Tasman District about and west of Motueka, Buller District, the ranges of the Grey District, the ranges of the Westland District and Fiordland west of the Lakes, extending into Friday.

Potential for Thunderstorms and Humidity

The possibility of thunderstorms exists within the areas under heavy rain watch. Residents, particularly in the North Island, can anticipate “uncomfortable sleeping conditions” due to a warm and humid air mass arriving tonight and tomorrow night.

Expert Insight: The convergence of these two weather systems highlights the complex interplay of atmospheric forces impacting New Zealand’s weather patterns. The potential for heavy rainfall and associated risks necessitate vigilance and preparedness from communities in affected regions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What areas are currently under a heavy rain watch?

Heavy rain watches are in effect for the Coromandel Peninsula, Bay of Plenty west of Kawerau, the Tasman District about and west of Motueka, Buller District, the ranges of the Grey District, the ranges of the Westland District, and Fiordland west of the Lakes, extending into Friday.

What were the strongest wind gusts recorded in the past 24 hours?

The strongest gusts were recorded in exposed parts of Northland and Auckland. Opouteke in Northland recorded 131km/h, while Cape Karikari reached 117km/h. In Auckland, Channel Island experienced gusts of 100km/h.

What is MetService predicting for the next 36 hours?

MetService is predicting a “busy” 36 hours with two weather systems bringing heavy rain to different parts of the country. A tropical low is impacting the North Island, while a front is moving over the South Island.

As these weather systems develop, what steps will you take to ensure your safety and preparedness?

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Tropical low to graze upper North Island, prompting weather watches

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

A tropical low is forecast to affect parts of New Zealand’s North Island in the coming days, with weather watches now in effect for strong winds and heavy rainfall.

Weather Watches Issued

A strong wind watch is in place for the Far North from midday today. Downpours are expected to trigger a heavy rain watch for the Coromandel Peninsula and the western Bay of Plenty beginning Thursday evening. Simultaneously, a front is moving onto Fiordland from the Tasman Sea, also prompting a heavy rain watch from Thursday evening into Friday.

Did You Know? Civil Defence Northland advises motorists to exercise extra care on the roads and prepare for potential power outages.

According to MetService meteorologist Mmathapelo Makgabutlane, the heaviest rain is currently expected to remain offshore. However, she stated, “The likeliest outlook is that the heaviest rain today stays offshore, over the ocean, and the more likely phenomenon to affect us is the wind.”

Warm and Humid Conditions

The tropical air mass associated with this system is expected to bring warmer and more humid nights to the northern parts of the country. Overnight lows in Northland, Auckland, and parts of Waikato could reach the high teens and even the early 20s. Daytime temperatures are expected to remain in the mid to high 20s across much of the North Island.

Expert Insight: The combination of wind and rain, coupled with the potential for power outages, highlights the importance of preparedness for residents in the affected areas. Staying informed about changing conditions is crucial.

Friday carries the possibility of thunderstorms and localized downpours in the upper North Island, potentially concluding a period of “active” weather, as described by Makgabutlane. She advises residents to “keep up with the forecast” for the remainder of the week.

Frequently Asked Questions

What areas are currently under a weather watch?

A strong wind watch is in effect for the Far North from midday. A heavy rain watch is in place for the Coromandel Peninsula and western Bay of Plenty from Thursday evening, and for Fiordland from Thursday evening into Friday.

What is the forecast for rainfall?

The heaviest rain is currently expected to stay offshore, but downpours are anticipated in the Coromandel Peninsula, western Bay of Plenty, and Fiordland. Friday may bring localized downpours to the upper North Island.

What should people prepare for?

Civil Defence Northland advises motorists to take extra care on the roads and prepare for potential power outages. Residents should stay informed about the latest forecasts.

As the weather system approaches, what steps will you take to stay informed and prepared?

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On This Date: Snow Plow Reveals Truck Buried In Iowa Blizzard

by Chief Editor
written by Chief Editor

The Resurfacing Past: When Winter Reveals More Than Just Spring

Bruce Springsteen’s lyrics, “Everything dies, baby, that’s a fact / But maybe everything that dies someday comes back,” resonated with a recent discovery in Iowa. A snow plow unearthed a pickup truck buried beneath winter drifts on State Highway 141, a stark reminder of how easily things can disappear – and reappear – with the changing seasons.

The Iowa Truck and the Power of Winter’s Embrace

During a particularly snowy winter, an Iowa resident abandoned a pickup truck, which was subsequently swallowed by the accumulating snow. It wasn’t a massive snowfall event – Denison, Iowa recorded only 4 inches from Winter Storm Lola – but wind gusts reaching 63 mph created substantial drifts, effectively concealing the vehicle. Five days after the storm, the truck was revealed by a Department of Transportation snow plow. This incident highlights the surprising power of even moderate snowfall combined with strong winds to completely obscure objects.

Beyond Pickups: The Hidden World Beneath the Snow

This isn’t an isolated event. Anyone who has experienced a harsh winter knows that small objects – garden tools, outdoor furniture, even seemingly substantial items – can vanish under the snow. The spring thaw then brings a sense of rediscovery, as these lost items emerge from their icy tombs. The Iowa DOT’s image of the buried truck simply represents the most dramatic example of this phenomenon.

The Increasing Frequency of Extreme Weather and its Impact

While finding buried objects is a seasonal occurrence, the increasing intensity and frequency of winter storms raise questions about the potential for more significant disruptions. The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has recently focused on infrastructure resilience, including addressing the impact of extreme weather events on roadways. In October 2024, the DOT issued a $50 million penalty against American Airlines for failures related to assisting passengers with disabilities, a case that underscored the importance of preparedness and accessibility during travel disruptions caused by weather.

The Role of Wind and Drift Formation

The Iowa truck incident underscores the critical role of wind in creating hazardous conditions. Strong winds don’t just increase the severity of a blizzard. they also create unpredictable drifts that can bury vehicles, obscure road markings, and significantly reduce visibility. This poses a challenge for both drivers and snow removal crews.

Cultural Resonance: Springsteen and the Cycle of Loss and Return

The connection drawn between the buried truck and Bruce Springsteen’s lyrics is more than just a coincidence. Springsteen’s perform often explores themes of loss, resilience, and the cyclical nature of life. The image of something lost in the winter and then rediscovered in the spring mirrors these themes, resonating with a sense of hope and renewal.

Looking Ahead: Preparing for a Changing Climate

As climate change continues to impact weather patterns, You can anticipate more frequent and intense winter storms in many regions. This necessitates a proactive approach to preparedness, including improved infrastructure, enhanced snow removal strategies, and increased public awareness.

Pro Tip:

Before the first snowfall, document the location of valuable outdoor items. This will create them easier to find if they become buried.

FAQ

Q: Is it common for vehicles to get buried in snow?
A: While not typical, it can happen, especially with significant snowfall and strong winds creating large drifts.

Q: What should you do if your vehicle gets stuck in a snowdrift?
A: Stay calm, avoid spinning your wheels, and call for assistance. If possible, clear snow away from the exhaust pipe.

Q: How is the DOT preparing for more extreme weather?
A: The DOT is investing in infrastructure improvements, developing more effective snow removal techniques, and working to improve communication with the public.

What’s the largest object you’ve ever found buried in winter snow? Share your story in the comments below!

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