February's climate
New Zealand climate in February
Rainfall was 50% or less of normal over much of the North Island from Manukau southwards, and in coastal Otago and parts of Southland. Twice normal rainfall was recorded in Northland, and parts of Canterbury.
February temperatures were above average in western areas, and near average over the north of the South Island and the northeast of the North Island. The national average temperature of 17.7 °C was 0.5 °C above normal. Otago and Southland basked in very sunny conditions.
For more information see www.niwascience.co.nz/ncc/cs/mclimsum_08_02
Soil moisture deficitAt the end of February, significant moisture deficits remained in many North Island areas, as well as in Marlborough and Otago. |
River flowsRiver and stream flows were above normal across Northland with some flooding, above normal in Canterbury, and below normal elsewhere, with extremely low flows for much of the North Island. |
December to February: the climate we predicted and what happened
Rainfall
Predicted: Above normal in northern North Island, below normal in west of South Island, and near normal elsewhere.
Outcome: Above normal in Northland, and mid Canterbury, below normal in large parts of the North Island and some South Island districts, and near normal elsewhere.
Air temperature
Predicted: Above average or average in all districts.
Outcome: Above average over much of New Zealand; near average in many east coast regions.
River flows
Predicted: A range from above normal in the northern North Island to below normal in the west, south, and east of the South Island.
Outcome: Stream flows were above normal in Northland and mostly below normal elsewhere.