New Zealand has experienced its hottest September since records began, according to data from the National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA).
The country’s average temperature for the month was 11.9 degrees, 1.3 degrees higher than the September average from 1991 to 2020. This makes it the warmest September since 1909.
In a record-breaking moment, Wairoa in the North Island noted a temperature of 29.6 degrees last month, the highest ever for September. Among the six main centres, Auckland was the warmest.
However, September also brought excessive rainfall to various regions, including Southland, Otago, Canterbury, coastal Wairarapa, Gisborne, Bay of Plenty, Waikato, and Auckland. Rainfall in these areas ranged from 120% to more than 149% of usual levels. On the flip side, places like the Hutt Valley, Kāpiti Coast, Manawatū-Whanganui, southern Hawke’s Bay, and Banks Peninsula received only 50% to 79% of their typical rainfall.
Last week, NIWA announced the onset of El Niño. This phenomenon is expected to bring significant temperature fluctuations in the coming three months. New Zealand should anticipate sporadic warm spells interrupted by intense cold southerlies.
Tim Mitchell, the national wildfire manager for Fire and Emergency, alerted the public to the possible oscillation of fire dangers due to these conditions. As we approach Christmas and if rainfall decreases, the country may face higher risks of wildfires. He advises the public to take precautions, such as clearing vegetation, maintaining water supplies, cleaning gutters, and devising a safety plan.
