Outlook - March to May 2012
Mature La Niña conditions are expected to dissipate in early autumn. Lower pressures than normal are expected over the Tasman Sea, resulting in more frequent northeast winds than usual over New Zealand. Seas around New Zealand are likely to be cooler than usual during autumn. Seasonal temperatures are likely to be average or below average in eastern areas of both Islands, and near average elsewhere. Autumn rainfall is likely to be normal or above normal in the north and east of the North Island, as well as the north of South Island, and near normal in all other regions.
Seasonal temperatures are likely to be average or below average in eastern areas of both Islands, and near average elsewhere.
Autumn rainfall and river flows are likely to be normal or above normal in the north and east of the North Island, as well as the north of South Island, and near normal in all other regions.
Autumn soil moisture levels are projected to be above normal in the northern North Island, normal or above normal in the east of the North Island and north of the South Island, and near normal elsewhere.
