A climate scientist says the extreme weather gripping New Zealand is probably a twice in a lifetime event.
Severe winds uprooted trees in Wellington including in the suburb of Island Bay. Photo: RNZ
James Renwick from Victoria University in Wellington said on Friday the southerly flow that has engulfed both islands came from unusually far south - almost as far as the ice cap - which partially explains why the winds were so cold and powerful.
Dr Renwick said the polar blast has been caused by fluctuations in wind currents around Antarctica and a similar event is unlikely to occur again for several decades.
He said climate change means powerful storms would become more common in future, but even in 100 years' time this week's weather would be considered particularly bad.
