New Zealanders hoping for better weather until the
end of the year could be in luck! The National Institute of Water and
Atmospheric Research (NIWA)'s three month outlook signals warmer than normal
temperatures and average or below average rainfall from October to December.
The climate centre's report, which predicts variations in temperature,
rainfall, soil moisture and river flows from normal levels, said those on the
east of the North Island and at the top of the south Island were most likely to
have the above average temperatures during the period though no part of New
Zealand is due any bad weather extremes. With no severe weather warnings of any
kind due on the Island residents can rest assured for an easier winter this
year with rain fall from October to December being below normal. Gardeners will
be pleased to know soil moisture levels are predicted to hold steady - with
either normal or above normal levels most likely to occur in the top of the
North Island meaning planting those bulbs and seeds ready for next years bloom
will be of no chore. River flows are also to be around normal with no warnings
either way. Around the world winter can
be an extremely testing time for people, with high snow fall, floods and ice to
the severity of schools and work places closing causing much inconvenience and
also the great worry of not being able to travel to receive medical treatment.
Many countries come to a stand still during times over the winter period, the
elderly isolated, the younger losing pay and the children missing education all
due to weather conditions. Here in New Zealand there is to be none of that.
Long leaisurely days at the beach could be on the cards with warmer weather
predicted for the rest of 2013, compare that to the climate countries around the
world will be facing over the coming months and we can count ourselves very
lucky!
During the school break up in the winter period you
can enjoy the knowledge that there will be very limited, if any at all, days
where little ones will be stuck inside due to rain, high winds or floods, so
start planning those winter outdoor activities, a short break or invite family
for the season knowing there's due to be no delays at the airports due to
weather conditions. A calm forecast for the festive season.
