New Zealand has been hit by a severe storm, with strong winds and flooding prompting a state of emergency in Christchurch. The MetService issued a red warning, the highest level, as a deepening low-pressure system moved across the country.
The low pressure intensified in the Tasman Sea and tracked eastwards, bringing destructive winds, especially through the Cook Strait. Wellington recorded gusts exceeding 90mph, while heavy rain caused flooding in the South Island, with over 100mm falling in less than 12 hours in some eastern areas. Snow warnings were issued for mountainous regions, with more than 50cm of snowfall in 24 hours, and waves of nearly 6 metres were reported in the Cook Strait.
Meanwhile, Europe is experiencing above-average temperatures, particularly in central and north-west regions. Vienna is expected to see temperatures above 30°C, more than 10°C above average, while parts of Germany and France may also reach around 30°C. These highs are driven by a low-pressure system over Portugal, but cooler northerly flow is expected next week, dropping temperatures to about 10°C below average.
