Outlook - March to May 2011

During March-May, mean sea level pressures are likely to be below normal to the north of New Zealand and above normal to the east and south of the country, with weaker westerlies across New Zealand. Temperatures are likely or very likely to be above average in all regions. Seasonal rainfall is likely to be above normal in the northern North Island, normal or above normal in the remainder of the North Island and the northern South Island, and near normal elsewhere.

Temperatures are likely or very likely to be above average in all regions.

Seasonal rainfall is likely to be above normal in the northern North Island, normal or above normal in the remainder of the North Island and the northern South Island, and near normal elsewhere.

Soil moisture levels and river flows are likely to be above normal in the North Island and the north of the South Island, and are likely to be near normal in the rest of the South Island.

Tropical cyclone activity is likely to be near- or above-normal for the rest of this season (through to May).

See our full March - May 2011 climate outlook