Severe weather warnings issued for New Zealand and Ireland

Severe weather warnings have been issued across New Zealand and Ireland as significant weather systems bring heavy rain, snow, and strong winds to both regions.

In New Zealand, MetService has issued orange warnings for heavy rain in the Tararua Range, heavy snow in the Canterbury High Country, and severe winds across the lower North Island. Rainfall in the Tararua Range could reach up to 90mm, potentially causing rapid rises in rivers, surface flooding, and slips. In the Canterbury High Country, snow accumulations of 10cm to 15cm are expected above 400m, which may disrupt travel and impact livestock. Wind gusts of up to 120km/h are forecast for several exposed areas.

In Ireland, Met Éireann has issued Status Orange rain warnings for Carlow, Kilkenny, Wexford, Wicklow, Cork, and Waterford. The warnings, effective Sunday morning, cite very heavy thundery rain and blustery conditions that could lead to flooding and poor visibility. Additionally, the combination of spring tides and strong onshore winds may cause wave overtopping along southern and southeastern coastlines. Status Yellow rain warnings are also in place for parts of Leinster, Munster, Cavan, and Monaghan.