Better weather forecast after cold snap

Thursday night's short, sharp squall has not spelt the end of summer in South Canterbury.

Strong winds hit the region, followed by heavy showers. The southerly storm left a coating of snow on the hills.

MetService media and communications meteorologist Dan Corbett said the cold snap had been brief and better weather was on the way for the weekend.

"It's not an end to summer by any means," Mr Corbett said.

Summer weather could be like a rollercoaster, he said.

"It's a much better looking weekend as the weather recovers."

Mr Corbett said there were various factors – a "fairly active" jet stream and the effect of the La Nina weather pattern – contributing to the cold snap.

The National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research website said trade winds strengthened during La Nina periods, and the pattern was a more intense version of "normal conditions".

Every La Nina was slightly different, Mr Corbett said.

Timaru District Council parks and recreation manager Bill Steans said the winds brought down branches along roads and in parks in the district.

While many people welcomed the rain, several Timaru Herald Facebook commenters noted the storm had knocked around their vegetable gardens.

- © Fairfax NZ News

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