With a heat spell on its way, climate scientists confirmed 2023 was the country’s second-hottest year on record. Niwa meteorologist Chris Brandolino said the country is experiencing hotter temperatures and more extreme weather events. Brandolino said 2022 was “a whisker” warmer than 2023, so remained Aotearoa’s hottest year – though last year pushed 2021 into third place. The Pacific has just experienced a rare “triple dip” La Niña, Brandolino said. Notably, the country was influenced by more “blocking” high pressure systems in the second half of 2023.

Source: Stuff January 10, 2024 14:55 UTC