Many people are asking WeatherWatch.co.nz “Where is winter?”, “When is winter truly arriving?”, “Will it snow to sea level this winter?”.  The neutral weather pattern we have right now has lead to enormous high pressure systems over Australia and this is fuelling big powerful westerlies in the Southern Ocean.

Like putting a leaf-blower up to a hose, it cuts off the southerly flow towards New Zealand and blocks it from heading north.  The westerly traffic is like a motorway, going one direction and with no on-ramps (at this stage) for the southerlies to get going.  

The season of winter is here – but the weather associated with winter is mostly avoiding New Zealand due to this more spring-like set up.

Perhaps we should rename this season “Sprinter”?

– InfoGraphic by Philip Duncan & Drew Chappell

– WeatherWatch.co.nz