The solar blow torch was firmly aimed at the south of the country today, and some of the hottest places were around Dunedin. Photos: Gerard O'BrienEarlier today the so-called 'Mosgiel microclimate' was in full force, with temperatures reaching 30degC on the Taieri Plain before Dunedin city reached 20degC. However, by 2pm Dunedin had reached 28degC, closing the gap on Dunedin Airport, which was on 31.8degC. He said the low would encourage more of the hot, humid airflow from the sub-tropics fuelling the heatwave in the lower South Island today and tomorrow. MetService says the main risk of storms today is about southern and eastern Taupo, Taihape, inland and southern Taranaki, Whanganui, Manawatu and the western ranges of Hawke's Bay.

Source: Otago Daily Times January 14, 2018 22:52 UTC