Global Setting – February 2011
2 March 2011
The strong La Niña event continues in the tropical Pacific, but is showing signs of easing. Neutral conditions are likely in the tropical Pacific by winter. During March-May, mean sea level pressures are likely to be below normal to the north of New Zealand and above normal to the east and south of the country, with weaker westerlies across New Zealand.
Sea surface temperatures
Sea surface temperatures near New Zealand are expected to remain above average, especially in western and northern coastal regions.