Last night was the longest night of the year – today is the shortest day (although tonight is basically equally as long).

As we reported earlier the solstice was at 10:34 this morning.

Now that the solstice has passed the days slowly lengthen – very, very, slowly at first. (you should notice extra light in about 4 to 6 weeks time).

However – ‘Seasonal lag’ means July & August are the coldest months ahead.  As for just how cold they will be this year, that is anyone’s guess. The chaotic pattern now that El Nino has gone means we can have sub-tropical and sub-Antarctic air quite easily within a few days.  For now July looks to start off about average with a colder southerly in the first week.

Seasonal lag isn’t just in winter – we get it in summer too – Our hottest months are January & February – the months following the longest day, which is in late December.

– Image / “A beautiful waning moonset as sunrise clouds show high over Waitakere Ranges; taken last month” / Zelda Wynn.

– WeatherWatch.co.nz