NZ North Island Forecast

By MountainWatch.com - 5 August 2010

North Island NZ Forecast Analysis
Thursday 5 August, 2010

By David Winterburn

Summary:
As with much of the country the north has been receiving significant rain over the last week, and there is more to come in this week's forecast. While Thursday and Friday look to remain mostly fine, the weekend brings more weather as a frontal system crosses the country. Expect snow down to 1000m over the weekend, and continuing showers into the start of next week.

Synoptic Outlook:
A low that has brought widespread rain to the North Island on Wednesday moves off east on Thursday and is replaced by a ridge of high pressure. This should bring some welcome fine weather to the rain drenched island.

Out to the west a large but weak low (1008hPa) is forming and is due to hit the island about early/midday Saturday. The system is dragging warm air from the north and should deliver rain to much of the island. The Central Plateau should see snow down to about 1500m on Saturday. On Sunday this should drop down to about 1000m on Saturday as the low passes over and the flow turns a cooler south/south

Thursday 5 August:
Rain at first but then gradually clearing by about midday.

Friday 6 August:
Mainly fine but some possible cloud about.

Saturday 7 August:
Strong to gale N/NW winds developing, with snow falling down to about 1500m.

Sunday 8 August:
N/NW easing and turning southerly, with snow falling to about 1000m.

Extended Synoptic Outlook:
Continued snow showers and cold S/SE winds for the early part of the week.

Be sure to check the daily condition Reports and forecast info and maps daily to keep your finger on the pulse.

Read more: http://www.mountainwatch.com/cwatch/Forecasts/New%20Zealand/Whakapapa#ixzz0vgbS4a7m

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