# Summer Weather: West Thrives, East Faces Lacklustre Days
**Who**: MetService meteorologist Alec Holden
**What**: Cloudy weather and strong winds in the east, better Summer weather in the west
**Where**: Throughout the country
**When**: Continuing into next week
**Why**: Low pressure system in the east, high pressure ridge in the west
**How**: Southerlies persisting, cloud and showers in the east, fine conditions elsewhere
Summer weather in New Zealand is shaping up to be a tale of two halves, with the west basking in better conditions while the east faces lacklustre days. MetService meteorologist Alec Holden has highlighted the contrasting weather patterns set to continue in the coming days.
## **Cloudy Skies and Southerlies Persist**
Holden emphasized that strong winds and cloudy weather would persist for eastern parts of the country, as a low-pressure system in the east and a ridge of high pressure in the west maintained their positions. The enduring southerlies are making it feel like summer is still lacking in the east, with cloud cover and showers moving in and out.
## **Temperature Discrepancies**
Christchurch has yet to reach its climatic average daily maximum temperature of 22 degrees Celsius in January, with the highest forecasted temperature in the next seven days hovering around just 19 degrees. The disparity in temperatures reflects the ongoing weather patterns affecting different regions.
## **Weekend Forecast**
Looking ahead, Holden mentioned that winds would pick up again in the east on Saturday, but showers were expected to remain primarily offshore. Conditions are predicted to be mainly fine elsewhere on Saturday, making it an ideal day for events like the Black Caps match against Sri Lanka at Auckland’s Eden Park.
## **NIWA’s Insights**
This summer’s weather is expected to be wetter and windier than usual, according to the National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA). Changes in air flow patterns, along with the onset of La Niña, are contributing to the unique weather conditions. La Niña, a cooling of the tropical Pacific Ocean, is influencing global weather patterns and leading to increased cloud development and rainfall in certain regions.
In conclusion, the dichotomy of weather patterns across the country highlights the diverse conditions New Zealanders can expect this summer. While the west enjoys more favorable weather, the east faces continuing challenges with cloud cover and showers. Stay tuned for updates as the weather patterns evolve throughout the season.
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