As the Tasman low finally moves across the country today, it could spark a few thunderstorms.  The best chance will about Hawkes Bay during the late morning and early afternoon.  A few thunderstorms are also possible further south into Wairarapa, but the chances are lower.  Any thunderstorms that do develop could produce brief heavy falls with rainfall rates up to 15mm/hr.  Hail 10-20mm in diameter is also possible.

On the South Island, a cold front will be moving north.  It could help to set off a few thunderstorms about Canterbury this afternoon.  Rainfall rates of 10-15mm/hr are possible with any thunderstorms that develop.  Hail 10-20mm in diameter is also possible.

The quick-hitting blast of chilly air behind that front is expected to bring strong winds and colder temperatures to the deep south and Canterbury throughout the day.  The wind, cold and possible snow could put stress on livestock, especially the young ones.  Travellers may also find it to be a slow-go about the higher roads and passes.

However, Government forecaster MetService has not issued a warning for this, saying that any snow that does develop will not reach warning criteria.  Nevertheless, both MetService and WeatherWatch.co.nz will keep a close eye on the situation.

Snow levels are expected to stay above 500 metres in the south and above 600 to 700 metres in Canterbury.

Homepage image/ Ben Hughes

By WeatherWatch.co.nz Analyst Howard Joseph