We are currently experiencing La Niña conditions, which cause more rain at the top of the North Island and less rain in the south-west of the South Island. But what actually is La Niña?

La Niña occurs when easterly trade winds are stronger than normal. These winds push the Pacific Ocean’s warmer surface water to the west, bringing cooler water to the surface in the east. Where the ocean’s surface is warmer, there are more thunderstorms, rainstorms, and clouds. Where the ocean’s surface is cooler, there are fewer. This year’s La Niña is expected to rapidly weaken over the summer.

Made with the support of NZ On Air.