National Severe Weather Watches Issued for Both Islands on Boxing Day

[wisdom01]

MetService has issued severe thunderstorm watches for significant parts of both main islands.Forecasters warn that a cold, unstable airmass over the South Island brings a risk of large hail, with potential for hailstones larger than 20mm in diameter which could damage crops, vehicles, and property. In the upper North Island, a trough could trigger heavy downpours of 25-40mm per hour, raising the risk of surface and flash flooding. The NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi is urging holiday travelers to take extra care due to hazardous driving conditions.