Hot fun in the summer time as temperatures soar

Yesterday was a scorcher in the South and with the sun came outdoor enthusiasts keen to take advantage of the summer weather.

Across the region people sought relief from the sweltering sun, at beaches, lakes and waterways .

Temperatures are expected to drop to the high teens and low 20s today, before heading back to the mid-20s before the new year.

MetService meteorologist Angus Hines said high pressure over the country was suppressing cloud formation, resulting in long sunshine hours.

The highest recorded temperature in the South yesterday — 32degC about 3pm — was atthe Millers Flat Station, followed closely by Mosgiel, which hit 31degC about 2.30pm.

The MetService reminded those outside in the sunshine to stay sun smart and to "slip, slop, slap and wrap".

Today, the South is expecting a break from the sun and temperatures should be more tolerable, Mr Hines said.

"Things should get a bit cloudy, and several degrees cooler.

"We get a cooler wind change coming across most of the South, and that’s likely to bring a few showers through."

New Year’s Day is "still shaping up to be a good one", Mr Hines said.

Hot in the South

Alexandra 29.3°C

Balclutha 29°C

Cromwell 28°C

Dunedin 25°C

Gore 26°C

Invercargill 25°C

Mosgiel 31°C

Naseby 26°C

Oamaru 29°C

Queenstown 24.5°C

Ranfurly 27°C

Timaru 26.8°C

Wanaka 26.1°C

cas.saunders@odt.co.nz