Kiwis face sub-zero effective temperatures and the risk of coastal flooding as a polar blast strikes New Zealand this weekend.
A southwest flow is moving onto the South Island from the Southern Ocean, driving down temperatures and whipping up wave heights.
MetService says this cold front will spread southwesterly gale across much of New Zealand on Saturday and Sunday, with severe gales possible for eastern Otago.
"A strong wind watch for 100km/h southwesterly gusts is in force for Dunedin and Clutha from this afternoon, heading into tomorrow morning," MetService posted to Facebook.
These strong winds will generate large waves and heavy long-period swell, especially on Sunday.
A NIWA graphic shows the risk of swell reaching heights of over 7 metres offshore or along southern coastlines.
"For the south and east coast of the North Island, high tide Sunday evening is one to watch for any impacts," it wrote.
This includes:
- Possible beach erosion
- Risk for coastal flooding
- Debris being pushed onto the coast
And with the blustery cold southerly comes a drop in temperatures.
"With the cool air being dragged across the country most people should expect below-average temperatures and if you're in a breezy region the wind chill is something to prepare for," MetService stated.
NIWA maps show where New Zealanders can expect low effective temperatures this weekend - the temperature that people perceive - with much of the central South Island and parts of the central North Island plummeting below zero.
MetService says if you're heading outside, check the forecast to avoid getting caught out by the wind chill, showers or dangerous coastal conditions.
