Climate of New Duveland
The climate of New Duveland is greatly influenced by the country's diverse landscape and location in the southern hemisphere. As a result, the country experiences a range of climatic conditions. Most regions of the country have a temperate and humid maritime climate (Köppen climate classifications: Cfb and Cfa) characterized by four distinct seasons. Winter temperatures are relatively mild, and summer temperatures are comparatively cool. The country's climate is influenced mainly by the Pacific Ocean and its latitude, but the various mountain ranges can cause significant climate variations in locations that are only a few kilometres apart.
In New Caledonia, the climate is extremely wet, with high levels of rainfall throughout the year. On Lapérouse's Northwest coast, the climate is more arid, and in some areas, it can be considered a desert conditions. In contrast, the high-altitude areas of the Southern Tasman Range experience subarctic conditions, with snowfall occurring for much of the year.
Annual temperature ranges from a minimum of 4°C on the southern coast to a maximum of 33°C in the northwest. Historical maximum and minimum temperatures are 47.8°C in Saint-Paul, Lapérouse, and -34.1°C near the summit of Temaungama/Mt Néthou, McKenzie. All the capitals (apart from Cascade) receive a yearly average of more than 2,000 hours of sunshine. The province of Norfolk has a cooler and cloudier climate, with around 1,400-1,600 hours of sunshine, while the north and western areas of Motu Matua are the sunniest areas of the country and receive approximately 2,400-2,500 hours of sunshine.
The general snow season is from late May until early October in Norfolk, with occasional snow falling along the southern areas of the Great Tasman Ranges within the same months. Although it is extremely unlikely, snow has reportedly fallen as far north as the highest peaks of Montagnes de L'Olmpe in northern Lapérouse. Overall, the climate of New Duveland is diverse and offers a range of conditions throughout the country.
Provinces and territories[edit | edit source]
Avaiki[edit | edit source]
Avaiki has a tropical rainforest climate (Af) with a distinct warm period (December–April), during which the temperatures rise above 32°C, and a cooler period (May–November), with temperatures rarely rising above 27°C. Annual rainfall sits around 1,700 mm (66.9 in) on the island.
The average wettest period is around March with on average 263 mm (10.4 in). The average daily humidity is 80%. The highest temperature recorded in Avaiki was 35 °C (95 °F) on 11 February 2020 in Liku'alofa. The coldest temperature recorded in Tonga was 8.7 °C (47.7 °F) on 8 September 1994 in Finehika. Temperatures of 15 °C (59 °F) or lower are usually measured in the dry season. The tropical cyclone season currently runs from 1 November to 30 April, though tropical cyclones can form and affect Avaiki outside of the season. According to the WorldRiskReport 2021, Avaiki has one of the highest natural disaster risks worldwide – mainly due to the island's exposure to multiple natural hazards.
| Place | Climate type | January average max. temp | January average min. temp | July average max. temp | July average min. temp | No. clear days | Annual precipitation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ha'atafu | Af | 29.4 °C (85 °F) | 22.4 °C (72 °F) | 24.5 °C (76 °F) | 17.7 °C (64 °F) | 179 | 1,550 mm (61 in) |
| Motunui | Af | 28 °C (82 °F) | 22 °C (72 °F) | 25 °C (77 °F) | 17 °C (63 °F) | 176 | 1,530 mm (60 in) |
| Talafo'ou | Af | 28.9 °C (84 °F) | 22.2 °C (72 °F) | 23.9 °C (75 °F) | 17.8 °C (64 °F) | 164 | 1,703 mm (67 in) |
Devereaux[edit | edit source]
Located in the central east of the New Duveland mainland, Devereaux's climate varies is predominately temperate, ranging from humid subtropical climate along it's eastern coast and inland valleys, to an Oceanic climate in the central highlands of the northern Tasman Ranges, with rare pockets of colder Subpolar Oceanic climates and even Subarctic climate, almost exclusively around the province's tallest mountain, Sommet de Whakaki, with a prominent Alpine climate.
The weather in the southern half of the province is generally warm to hot in summer and cool in the winter. The seasons are more defined in the southern half of the province, especially in the South West along to border with McKenzie. Rainfall usually peaks in the summer across the province. On a hot summer day, a southerly buster may at times moderate the extreme heat experienced in the coastal Devereaux, from Grenoble southwards to Lavenay.
The weather in the northeast region of the state, or the North Coast, bordering Lapérouse, is hot and humid in the summer, with a rainfall peak, and mild in winter with more sunshine, and little seasonal temperature difference. The Northern Tasman Ranges have relatively mild summers and cold winters, due to their high elevation. The Thézan-sur-Devereaux Valley, which lies on the leeward side of the Northern Great Tasman Ranges, experiences foehn winds, particularly between winter and spring, which can elevate forest fire dangers.
The coldest region is the southern portion of the Tasman Ranges around the Whakaki Highlands where the snow and frost continues for a long period during the winter months. The foothills of the Northern Tasman Ranges have mild to warm summers and cold winters, although not as severe as those in the Whakaki Highlands. Some areas situated in or around the range, such as Lannes, Marakeke and Poujols, among other places, have recorded freezing and/or near-freezing lows in most months of the year, unlike other places of similar latitude and altitude in the northern hemisphere.
| Place | Climate type | January average max. temp | January average min. temp | July average max. temp | July average min. temp | No. clear days | Annual precipitation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blois | Cfa | 29.0 °C (84 °F) | 17.6 °C (64 °F) | 18.5 °C (65 °F) | 5.9 °C (43 °F) | 241 | 1,178.8 mm (46 in) |
| Grenoble | Cfa | 28.0 °C (82 °F) | 18.5 °C (65 °F) | 27.1 °C (81 °F) | 6.3 °C (43 °F) | 212.2 | 1,416.7 mm (56 in) |
| Korakonui | Dfc | 18 °C (64 °F) | 5 °C (41 °F) | 2 °C (36 °F) | −7 °C (19 °F) | 78 | 1,948 mm (77 in) |
| Laval | Cfb | 27.4 °C (81 °F) | 15.6 °C (60 °F) | 23.2 °C (74 °F) | 1.0 °C (34 °F) | 258.2 | 762 mm (30 in) |
| Lavenay | Cfa | 25.8 °C (78 °F) | 17.9 °C (64 °F) | 25.7 °C (78 °F) | 8.4 °C (47 °F) | 218.7 | 1,320.9 mm (52 in) |
| Millau | Cfa | 25.7 °C (78 °F) | 20.1 °C (68 °F) | 26.3 °C (79 °F) | 9.4 °C (49 °F) | 227.9 | 1,034.5 mm (41 in) |
| Toulon | Cfa | 30.2 °C (86 °F) | 18.2 °C (65 °F) | 18.0 °C (64 °F) | 5.4 °C (42 °F) | 230 | 821.3 mm (32 in) |
Lapérouse[edit | edit source]
Because of its size, there is significant variation in climate across Lapérouse. There is ample rainfall along the humid sub-tropical east coast, compared to the Low rainfall and hot humid summers that are typical for the western half of the province, which largely lie within the rainshadow of the northern Great Tasman Ranges. Elevated areas in the central inland areas can experience temperatures well below freezing in mid-winter providing frost and, snowfall. The climate of the coastal regions is influenced by warm ocean waters, keeping the region free from extremes of temperature and providing moisture for rainfall.
There are six predominant climatic zones in Lapérouse, based on temperature and humidity:
- Hot humid summer, warm dry winter (extreme north): Évrard
- Hot humid summer, mild dry winter (coastal elevated areas and east coast): Renné, Espérance, Loisieux, Barnave
- Hot dry summer, cool dry winter (central westtoowo inland): Sentilly, Te Kaha, Monné
- Warm humid summer, cold dry winter (elevated south-eastern areas): Wataroa, Dranville, Régusse
- Arid, hot desert (north west coast): Saint-Paul, Aureilhan, Léandry
- Temperate, dry and hot summers (southern west coast): St Martins, Chanais, Motupipi
The annual mean climatic statistics for selected Lapérousean cities are shown below:
| Place | Climate type | January average max. temp | January average min. temp | July average max. temp | July average min. temp | No. clear days | Annual precipitation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chanais | Csa | 31.6 °C (89 °F) | 18.0 °C (64 °F) | 19.6 °C (67 °F) | 9.5 °C (49 °F) | 309 | 416.3 mm (16 in) |
| Espérance | Cfa | 33.2 °C (92 °F) | 18.8 °C (66 °F) | 25.1 °C (77 °F) | 7.1 °C (45 °F) | 264 | 1,252.9 mm (49 in) |
| Évrard | Cfa | 31.8 °C (89 °F) | 22.8 °C (73 °F) | 23.5 °C (74 °F) | 13.9 °C (57 °F) | 301 | 882.8 mm (35 in) |
| Loisieux | Cfa | 28.0 °C (82 °F) | 21.3 °C (70 °F) | 27.1 °C (81 °F) | 12.3 °C (54 °F) | 197.8 | 1,509.2 mm (59 in) |
| Motupipi | Bsk | 29.2 °C (85 °F) | 17.6 °C (64 °F) | 19.2 °C (67 °F) | 9.9 °C (50 °F) | 252.8 | 592.3 mm (23 in) |
| Saint-Paul | BWh | 31.7 °C (89 °F) | 22.8 °C (73 °F) | 23.1 °C (74 °F) | 10.8 °C (51 °F) | 333 | 210.0 mm (8 in) |
| St Martins | BSh | 33.2 °C (92 °F) | 19.6 °C (67 °F) | 21.8 °C (71 °F) | 9.7 °C (49 °F) | 320 | 343.6 mm (14 in) |
| Te Kaha | Cfa | 34.3 °C (94 °F) | 20.9 °C (70 °F) | 20.3 °C (69 °F) | 3.9 °C (39 °F) | 290.3 | 577.1 mm (23 in) |
| Valéry | Cfa | 30.5 °C (87 °F) | 21.7 °C (71 °F) | 22.1 °C (72 °F) | 10.3 °C (51 °F) | 274.3 | 1,011 mm (40 in) |
| Wataroa | Cfb | 27.4 °C (81 °F) | 15.6 °C (60 °F) | 14.9 °C (59 °F) | 1.0 °C (34 °F) | 258,2 | 762 mm (30 in) |
The coastal far north of the province is one of the wettest regions on Mainland New Duveland, with Pic de Montbozon, south of Évrard, holding the province's annual rainfall records with over 8 metres. Snow is common only at extreme altitude within the central highlands of the central southern regions, largely along the border with Devereaux. The most northerly snow ever recorded in New Duveland occurred at Sommet de Montgeard; however, this was exceptional. In the most extreme cases, subarctic and even two areas of tundra climates can be found deep within the northern tasman ranges, found around Mont Baker/Kaihanda Taro and Mt Berwick/Kerikeri, the tallest and second tallest mountains in the province at 3,186m and 2,730m respectively.
Natural disasters are often a threat in Lapérouse: severe tropical cyclones can impact the northern coastlines and cause severe damage, with recent examples including Wati, Funa, Zelia and Gita. Flooding from rain-bearing systems can also be severe and can occur anywhere in Lapérouse. One of the deadliest and most damaging floods in the history of the province occurred in early 2012. Severe springtime thunderstorms generally affect the north-east and eastern half of the province and can bring damaging winds, torrential rain, large hail and even tornadoes. The strongest tornado ever recorded in New Duveland occurred in Lapérouse near Pontault. Droughts and bushfires can also occur; however, the latter are generally less severe than those that occur in southern provinces.
The highest official maximum temperature recorded in New Duveland was 47.8 °C (118.0 °F) at the Saint-Paul Airport, Saint-Paul on the north-west coast on the 25 December 1980, although the Moderate-Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) on NASA's Aqua satellite measured a ground surface temperature of 69.3 °C (156.7 °F). The lowest recorded minimum temperature is −20.5 °C (−4.9 °F) at the summit of Mont Baker/Kaihanda Taro on the 10th June 1976. Temperatures below 0 °C (32 °F) are, however, generally uncommon over the majority of populated Queensland.
Macquarie[edit | edit source]
Macquarie has a warm-summer Mediterranean climate (Köppen climate classification Csb), with warm dry summers and cool wet winters. In summer (December to February) the average minimum is around 15 to 17 °C and the average maximum is around 26 to 29 °C, but there is considerable variation and Macquarie can usually expect several days a year where temperatures reach the mid/high 30s to low 40s. On a few occasions the temperature has even nudged into the mid 40s. These high temperatures usually occur when hot northerly winds blow hot air down south from the arid north west coast of Lapérouse, causing the mercury to spike. However, the weather, like Tasbury, Moanarua, can be rather changeable as it is not uncommon to have days where the temperature peaks in the low 20s when there is a cool southerly wind blowing cooler air from the Southern Ocean. Occasionally, the mercury may fail to get to 20 degrees - even in the peak of summer. In winter (June to August) the average maximum is around 14 to 16 °C and the average minimum around 7 to 9°C, although temperatures again can fluctuate. Note though that the mercury rarely drops below freezing or rises above 19°C. Frosts are common in the valleys of the foothills of Mt Mull, but rare elsewhere, with the most notable occurrences having occurred in July 1908 and July 1982. In winter, Macquarie experiences quite a significant wind chill, which makes the apparent temperature seem cooler than it actually is.
Rainfall is unreliable, light and infrequent throughout summer. The average in January and February is around (0.7 inches), but completely rainless months are by no means uncommon (latest being January 2019), and in 1893 sixty-nine days passed without measurable rainfall. In contrast, the winter has fairly reliable rainfall with June being the wettest month of the year, averaging around 80 mm. July is the wettest month with an average of 100.2 mm falling on 22 days whilst February normally records the lowest rainfall with an average of 26 mm on an average 8 days.
| Place | Climate type | January average max. temp | January average min. temp | July average max. temp | July average min. temp | No. clear days | Annual precipitation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Macquarie | Csb | 41.5 °C (107 °F) | 12.0 °C (54 °F) | 23.1 °C (74 °F) | 2.6 °C (37 °F) | 235 | 542 mm (21 in) |
McKenzie[edit | edit source]
McKenzie has a cool temperate climate with four distinct seasons. The highest recorded maximum temperature in McKenzie is 42.2 °C (108.0 °F) at Deredis on 30 January 2009, during the 2009 southern New Duveland heat wave. McKenzie's lowest recorded minimum temperature is −34.2 °C (−29.6 °F) on 7 August 2020, near Hunter, within the Carnaween Valley.
Rainfall in McKenzie is highly differentiated over a relatively short distance. It follows a complicated pattern rather analogous to that found on large continents at the same latitude in the northern hemisphere. Rainfall increases from around 600 millimetres (24 in) around Hakaru in the north-east to just under 5,000 millimetres (200 in) in the areas of the Southern Tasman Ranges, especially around Mt Croaghbane and Te tihi o Aeto in the province's central west. Most rain falls during the winter months and is normally associated with frontal systems. Elevation also has an important influence on rainfall, with the mountain areas of western McKenzie receiving higher rainfall totals.
The wettest part of the Province is the west coast, where there is a strong winter maximum in rainfall: January and February typically averages only one-third the rainfall of July and August, though even in the driest months rain usually falls on every second day and the number of rainy days per year is much greater than on any part of the New Duveland mainland. Further east in the Paparahiki Plateau, annual rainfall declines to around 900 millimetres (35 in), whilst in the north east, annual rainfall is as low as 600 millimetres (24 in). The eastern part of McKenzie has rainfall more evenly distributed throughout the year than in the west, and most months receive very similar averages.
In the central-east, including Lisburn, Spring receives slightly more rainfall than Winter, and Spring also has slightly more rainy days than Winter.
Sunshine is also highly differentiated, with average quotients ranging from around 4 hours a day (under 1500 hours a year) in the South West of the province, up to around 7 hours daily (2550 hours annually) in the North East around the northern border with Devereaux. It shares a similar climate to places like the United Kingdom, New Zealand, and the Pacific Northwest.
Summers have an average maximum sea temperatures of 25 °C (77 °F). On land, maximum temperatures average 20 °C (68 °F) to 24 °C (75 °F) along the coast and in the lowlands, such as around Lisburn. The hottest areas of the state are in the far north, where summer temperatures regularly rise above 35 °C (95 °F). During heatwaves, temperatures in this region can rise above 40 °C (104 °F). The McKenzien highlands are much cooler, with Hunter, located in the Carnaween Valley, one of the coldest places in New Duveland with temperatures in February averaging between 5 °C (41 °F) to 16 °C (60.8 °F).
Winters are generally the wettest and coolest months in the province, with most elevated areas receiving considerable snowfall. Winter maximums range from 12 °C (54 °F) along the coast, to 3 °C (37 °F) in the southern McKenzie Valley, while alpine regions can have maximum ranges below 0 thanks to frequent cold fronts from the Southern Ocean. Most of coastal McKenzie rarely drops below freezing and daily temperature variation is often very narrow. Elevated, inland areas can however drop below −10 °C (14 °F) during clear nights between fronts, while during snowy weather the maximum temperature may not rise above 0 °C (32 °F).
The coldest temperature ever recorded in New Duveland was recorded at the Kahuika Observatory, recording −26.0 °C (14.8 °F) on 17 July 1913.
| Place | Climate type | January average max. temp | January average min. temp | July average max. temp | July average min. temp | No. clear days | Annual precipitation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Awanui | Cfa | 27.6 °C (82 °F) | 16.5 °C (62 °F) | 16.6 °C (62 °F) | 6.6 °C (44 °F) | 228.5 | 901.5 mm (35 in) |
| Cashel | Cfb | 19.9 °C (68 °F) | 9.3 °C (49 °F) | 8.4 °C (47 °F) | 0.7 °C (33 °F) | 130.5 | 2,191 mm (86 in) |
| Connacht | Cfb | 23.1 °C (74 °F) | 15.2 °C (59 °F) | 14.7 °C (58 °F) | 7.1 °C (45 °F) | 220.3 | 1,210.7 mm (48 in) |
| Finvoy | Cfc | 18.6 °C (65 °F) | 5.5 °C (42 °F) | 5.5 °C (42 °F) | −1.5 °C (29 °F) | 149.4 | 1,042.1 mm (41 in) |
| Hikurangi Village | Dfc | 19.2 °C (67 °F) | 5.8 °C (42 °F) | 2.4 °C (36 °F) | −5.0 °C (23 °F) | 152 | 2,764.6 mm (109 in) |
| Hunter | Dfc | 15.9 °C (61 °F) | 4.9 °C (41 °F) | −2.0 °C (28 °F) | −8.1 °C (17 °F) | 132.9 | 3,933 mm (155 in) |
| Kahuika Observatory | Et | 11.3 °C (52 °F) | 5.6 °C (42 °F) | −4.0 °C (25 °F) | −9.9 °C (14 °F) | 231.5 | 698.5 mm (28 in) |
| Lisburn | Cfb | 24.5 °C (76 °F) | 14.6 °C (58 °F) | 14.1 °C (57 °F) | 5.6 °C (42 °F) | 267.9 | 784.8 mm (31 in) |
| Moore | Cfb | 23.0 °C (73 °F) | 12.5 °C (55 °F) | 12.7 °C (55 °F) | 4.6 °C (40 °F) | 234.3 | 918.2 mm (36 in) |
| Portsea | Cfb | 20.2 °C (68 °F) | 12.0 °C (54 °F) | 17.0 °C (63 °F) | 6.8 °C (44 °F) | 129 | 1,075.2 mm (42 in) |
| Te Kuiti | Cfb | 21.0 °C (70 °F) | 8.3 °C (47 °F) | 11.6 °C (53 °F) | 2.4 °C (36 °F) | 115.5 | 2,408.2 mm (95 in) |
| Totara | Cfc | 22.8 °C (73 °F) | 8.5 °C (47 °F) | 7.7 °C (46 °F) | −1.9 °C (29 °F) | 252.5 | 1,304 mm (51 in) |
| Wexford | Cfb | 24 °C (75 °F) | 14 °C (57 °F) | 15 °C (59 °F) | 4 °C (39 °F) | 214.7 | 1,535 mm (60 in) |
Moanarua[edit | edit source]
Moanarua has a varied climate despite its small size. It ranges from warm-summer mediterranean along the west coast, semi-arid in the inland west, to temperate and cool along the foothills in the east, and even has subarctic to tundra/alpine deep within high-altitude areas of the Southern Tasman Ranges. The ranges, alongside the Ōmokoroa Sea, have great influence over Moanarua's climate.
The coastal regions surrounding the between the Ōmokoroa Sea and the Southern Tasman Ranges haves Moanarua's mildest climate. Air from the Southern Ocean helps reduce the heat of summer and the cold of winter. Tasbury and other large cities are located in this temperate region.
The north west of the province is the warmest region with hot winds blowing from arid regions up north. Average temperatures top 30 °C (86 °F) during summer and 15 °C (59 °F) in winter. Moanarua's highest maximum temperature of 48.8 °C (119.8 °F) was recorded in Woodlands on 7 February 2009, during the 2009 southern New Duveland heat wave. A screen temperature of 50.7 °C (123.3 °F) was recorded on 7 January 1906 in Waterford.
The Southern Tasman Ranges in the east are the coldest part of Moanarua. The Alps are part of the Great Tasman Range mountain system extending north-south along the border with McKenzie. Average temperatures are less than 0 °C (32 °F) in winter and below −2 °C (28 °F) in the highest parts of the ranges. The province's lowest minimum temperature of −19.5 °C (−3.1 °F) was recorded at the Temaungama/Mt Néthou station on 13 June 1965, and again at Makarora on 3 July 1970.
Rainfall in Moanarua increases from north to south, with higher averages in areas of high altitude. Median annual rainfall exceeds 4,000 mm (157 in) in some parts of the south east but is less than 600 mm (24 in) in the north west.
Rain is heaviest in the Tiniroto Highlands and the Mangatua Highlands of the Southern Tasman Ranges in eastern Moanarua and along the east coast of the Mahi Peninsula facing the Ōmokoroa Sea. Snow generally falls only in the mountains and hills in the east of the province. Rain falls most frequently in winter, but summer precipitation is heavier. Rainfall is most reliable in the south, east and central regions, making them both leading farming areas. Moanarua's highest recorded daily rainfall was 375 millimetres (14.8 in) at Tanybryn in the Tiniroto Highlands on 22 March 1983.
Snow season can last year-round in the highest of peaks in the east of the province, with a strong snow season falling into the foothills for a good 4-6 months of the year. Blizzards aren't uncommon at extreme altitudes, and help grow several glaciers and glacial lakes high up in the maintains, such as Lake Makarora, Lake Mangatua, and Lake Melrose. During intense winter antarctic blasts, snowfall can reach places as low as hillside suburban areas of Tasbury, and can wreak havoc in unprepared areas.
| Place | Climate type | January average max. temp | January average min. temp | July average max. temp | July average min. temp | No. clear days | Annual precipitation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alexandria | Csb | 31.0 °C (88 °F) | 12.5 °C (55 °F) | 13.6 °C (56 °F) | 3.2 °C (38 °F) | 236.1 | 374.8 mm (15 in) |
| Albury | Cfb | 24.3 °C (76 °F) | 15.1 °C (59 °F) | 15.8 °C (60 °F) | 4.4 °C (40 °F) | 237.1 | 830.6 mm (33 in) |
| Brighton | Cfa | 20.3 °C (69 °F) | 14.0 °C (57 °F) | 12.2 °C (54 °F) | 8.3 °C (47 °F) | 172.0 | 1,173.2 mm (46 in) |
| Limerick | BSk | 32.3 °C (90 °F) | 16.7 °C (62 °F) | 15.4 °C (60 °F) | 4.3 °C (40 °F) | 284.7 | 289.6 mm (11 in) |
| Makarora | Cfc | 15.3 °C (60 °F) | 6.8 °C (44 °F) | −1.4 °C (29 °F) | −4.7 °C (24 °F) | 216.1 | 2,752.8 mm (108 in) |
| Newcastle | Cfa | 24.6 °C (76 °F) | 15.0 °C (59 °F) | 15.2 °C (59 °F) | 5.8 °C (42 °F) | 230.5 | 816.0 mm (32 in) |
| Port Williams | Csb | 30.0 °C (86 °F) | 17.6 °C (64 °F) | 15.6 °C (60 °F) | 7.7 °C (46 °F) | 235.5 | 536.5 mm (21 in) |
| Tasbury | Cfa | 21.3 °C (70 °F) | 15.0 °C (59 °F) | 12.0 °C (54 °F) | 8.1 °C (47 °F) | 177.8 | 1,052.6 mm (41 in) |
| Tihaka Village | Dfc | 16.4 °C (62 °F) | 5.1 °C (41 °F) | −1.6 °C (29 °F) | −7.1 °C (19 °F) | 145.3 | 3,733 mm (147 in) |
| Waterford | BSk | 29.1 °C (84 °F) | 14.6 °C (58 °F) | 16.2 °C (61 °F) | 5.4 °C (42 °F) | 257.6 | 348.5 mm (14 in) |
| Weymouth | Csb | 21.8 °C (71 °F) | 12.7 °C (55 °F) | 13.6 °C (56 °F) | 6.5 °C (44 °F) | 176.2 | 827.1 mm (33 in) |
Montmaneu Islands[edit | edit source]
The Montmaneu Islands have a mid-latitude and marine subtropical climate (Köppen: Cfa), leading to little seasonal differentiation, while the highlands of the islands have a cooler, Oceanic climate. The temperature overall never falls below 0 °C (32 °F) or rises above 30 °C (86 °F). The absolute maximum recorded temperature is 29.2 °C (84.6 °F), while the absolute minimum is 3.2 °C (37.8 °F). Average annual precipitation is around 1,100 millimetres (43 in), with most rain falling from April to August. Other months receive significant amounts of precipitation as well. The temperate nature of the island and predictable rainfall made the island group attractive to early european settlers for agricultural purposes, and to this day, takes up a majority of the islands surface.
| Place | Climate type | January average max. temp | January average min. temp | July average max. temp | July average min. temp | No. clear days | Annual precipitation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cala d'Or | Cfa | 28.3 °C (83 °F) | 18.4 °C (65 °F) | 22.0 °C (72 °F) | 12.4 °C (54 °F) | 160 | 1,291.2 mm (51 in) |
| Port de Pollença | Cfa | 27.6 °C (82 °F) | 17.7 °C (64 °F) | 21.4 °C (71 °F) | 12.00 °C (54 °F) | 166 | 1,258.8 mm (50 in) |
| Santandria | Cfa | 27.2 °C (81 °F) | 17.1 °C (63 °F) | 21.0 °C (70 °F) | 11.6 °C (53 °F) | 168 | 1,227.3 mm (48 in) |
| Santa Eulària | Cfa | 26.7 °C (80 °F) | 16.6 °C (62 °F) | 20.5 °C (69 °F) | 11.1 °C (52 °F) | 170.5 | 1,205.7 mm (47 in) |
New Caledonia[edit | edit source]
New Caledonia's climate is tropical, modified by southeasterly trade winds. It is hot and humid. Natural hazards are posed in New Caledonia by cyclones, which occur most frequently between November and March. While rainfall in the neighboring Vanuatu islands averages two meters annually, from the north of New Caledonia to the south the rain decreases to a little over 1,000 mm (39 in). The mean annual temperature drops over the same interval from 27.5 to 24.3 C, and seasonality becomes more pronounced. The capital, Nouméa, located on a peninsula on the southwestern coast of the island normally has a dry season which increases in intensity from August until mid-December, ending suddenly with the coming of rain in January. The northeastern coast of the island receives the most rain, with 2,400 mm (94 in) having been recorded near sea level in Pouébo.
| Place | Climate type | January average max. temp | January average min. temp | July average max. temp | July average min. temp | No. clear days | Annual precipitation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Koumac | Am | 29.7 °C (85 °F) | 22.5 °C (73 °F) | 25.0 °C (77 °F) | 17.8 °C (64 °F) | 110.8 | 984.8 mm (39 in) |
| Nouméa | Aw | 28.9 °C (84 °F) | 23.0 °C (73 °F) | 22.6 °C (73 °F) | 17.3 °C (63 °F) | 105 | 1,071.5 mm (42 in) |
| Poindimie | Af | 28.7 °C (84 °F) | 22.6 °C (73 °F) | 24.1 °C (75 °F) | 17.1 °C (63 °F) | 89 | 2,506 mm (99 in) |
| Tontouta | Aw | 30.7 °C (87 °F) | 26.0 °C (79 °F) | 23.7 °C (75 °F) | 18.9 °C (66 °F) | 81.3 | 952.9 mm (38 in) |
Norfolk[edit | edit source]
Norfolk has a cool temperate climate with four distinct seasons, with consistent rainfall varying from as low as 500mm in the north west coast around Pine Bay, and can reach as high as over 1,500mm in the central Kingston Ranges, especially around Mt McStanley / Moekararehe. While most of the island has an Oceanic climate, small areas of humid subtropical areas exist in northern coastal lowland areas of the island, stretching clockwise from Stockton on the west coast, all the way around to Oxford on the north east coast. In the mountainous areas exist areas of subpolar oceanic climates, largely located in the Kingston Ranges that stretch from the north to south of the island, largely located in the central areas of the ranges, with some isolated areas around Mt Koromiko and Maungatapere in the north. Subarctic and even alpine climates exist at higher altitudes, with some glaciers even forming around the summits of Mt McStanley / Moekararehe and Taneatua Peak.
Temperatures can vary wildly across the island as it stretches over 650km north to south, with the south averaging highs of 21.7 °C (71.1 °F) in the summer, while the north averages 27.0 °C (80.6 °F). The highest recorded maximum temperature in Norfolk was 33.5 °C (92.3 °F) at Granity on 4 February 2020, during the 2009 southern New Duveland heat wave. Norfolk's lowest recorded minimum temperature was −22.5 °C (72.5 °F) on 7 August 2020, at the Taneatua Peak Ski Resort.
Some of Norfolk's outlying islands, such as Puiatahi Island and Norfuk Island have humid subtropical climates, that can support notable areas of subtropical forests.
| Place | Climate type | January average max. temp | January average min. temp | July average max. temp | July average min. temp | No. clear days | Annual precipitation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Albany | Cfb | 23.1 °C (74 °F) | 15.2 °C (59 °F) | 14.7 °C (58 °F) | 7.1 °C (45 °F) | 220.3 | 1,210.7 mm (48 in) |
| Cascade | Cfb | 24.0 °C (75 °F) | 14.8 °C (59 °F) | 14.5 °C (58 °F) | 5.9 °C (43 °F) | 245.6 | 1,180.9 mm (46 in) |
| Oxford | Cfa | 25.8 °C (78 °F) | 17.9 °C (64 °F) | 17.2 °C (63 °F) | 8.4 °C (47 °F) | 218.7 | 1,320.9 mm (52 in) |
| Paparoa | Cfa | 23.9 °C (75 °F) | 15.1 °C (59 °F) | 15.6 °C (60 °F) | 8.5 °C (47 °F) | 216.3 | 1,350.8 mm (53 in) |
| Redford | Cfb | 23.9 °C (75 °F) | 12.9 °C (55 °F) | 13.8 °C (57 °F) | 4.0 °C (39 °F) | 245.6 | 1,180.9 mm (46 in) |
| Rutherglen | Cfc | 23.1 °C (74 °F) | 7.3 °C (45 °F) | 8.7 °C (48 °F) | −2.6 °C (27 °F) | 197.5 | 2,207 mm (87 in) |
| Taneatua Peak Ski Resort | Dfc | 19.2 °C (67 °F) | 5.8 °C (42 °F) | 2.4 °C (36 °F) | −5.0 °C (23 °F) | 176.3 | 2,734 mm (108 in) |
| Wairangi | Cfb | 24.9 °C (77 °F) | 13.6 °C (56 °F) | 14.1 °C (57 °F) | 4.6 °C (40 °F) | 252.7 | 1,050 mm (41 in) |
Tasman[edit | edit source]
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Most of Tasman has a Mediterranean climate, largely due to it being within the rainshadow of Tasman Ranges, while inland areas of higher elevation consist first of a central band of Cold, semi-arid regions followed by Oceanic and even subpolar oceanic, subarctic and even alpine tundra areas around the highest mountains, notablying including the country's tallest mountain, Kei Runga Kapua/Mount Luiz.
Average annual rainfall varies from 300 mm (12 in) near the town of Emerald close to the westernmost point of the New Duveland Mainland, to up to over 2,000mm in the highest areas of the Tasman Range. In the west, during the months of November to March, although rain still falls, evaporation exceeds rainfall and it is generally very dry. A major reduction in rainfall has been observed, with a greater number of rainfall events in the summer months, leading to droughts that can plague the region for years at a time. Thankfully, rainfall is generally consistent in the alps, so water scarcity along the coast is minor. The constant rain in the alps also means that the largest lake in the country, Roto Nui, located in a cold semi-arid region maintains a consistent water level all year-round.
Snowfall in the province is rare outside the mountainous eastern parts, and typically only falls on and around Kei Runga Kapua/Mount Luiz, Te tihi o Tapu and the slopes of Arama Maunga that it shares with Devereaux. Rarely does snow fall outside these regions, but has been recorded as far west as Mt Tweed between Plymouth and Onario. The most widespread low-level snow occurred on 26 June 1956 when snow was reported in the around the foothills of Mt Tweed, however, even here, snowfalls rarely exceed 5 cm (2 in) and rarely settle for more than one day, while Kei Runga Kapua/Mount Luiz can maintain snowfall for many months of the year, and is even home to some ski resorts.
The highest observed maximum temperature of 46.0 °C (114.8 °F) was recorded at Lancelin Station, just south of the border with Lapérouse on 19 February 1998. The lowest minimum temperature recorded was −11.6 °C (11.12 °F) at the Kei Runga Kapua/Mount Luiz Observatory on 17 August 2008.
The capital and largest city, Plymouth, has a Mediterranean climate (Köppen climate classification Csa), with hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters. February is the hottest month of the year, with an average high of 31.6 °C (88.9 °F), and July is the coldest month of the year, with an average low of 7.9 °C (46.2 °F). 77% of rain in Plymouth falls between May and September. Plymouth has an average of 8.8 hours of sunshine per day, which equates to around 3,200 hours of annual sunshine, and 138.7 clear days annually, making it the sunniest capital city in New Duveland, and as such as become a prime holiday destination due to almost guaranteed good weather all year.
| Place | Climate type | January average max. temp | January average min. temp | July average max. temp | July average min. temp | No. clear days | Annual precipitation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ashford | Cfb | 29.7 °C (85 °F) | 14.3 °C (58 °F) | 15.0 °C (59 °F) | 5.5 °C (42 °F) | 218.5 | 1,233 mm (49 in) |
| Georgetown | Csa | 31.9 °C (89 °F) | 19.4 °C (67 °F) | 19.1 °C (66 °F) | 8.3 °C (47 °F) | 255.2 | 732.2 mm (29 in) |
| Hamilton | Bsk | 25.1 °C (77 °F) | 10.8 °C (51 °F) | 8.1 °C (47 °F) | −2.4 °C (28 °F) | 290.3 | 359.4 mm (14 in) |
| Moa Creek | Csa | 30.0 °C (86 °F) | 17.2 °C (63 °F) | 19.6 °C (67 °F) | 9.4 °C (49 °F) | 264.2 | 545.1 mm (21 in) |
| Onairo | Csa | 31.2 °C (88 °F) | 18.1 °C (65 °F) | 18.5 °C (65 °F) | 7.9 °C (46 °F) | 247.9 | 730.9 mm (29 in) |
| Plymouth | Csa | 29.8 °C (86 °F) | 15.5 °C (60 °F) | 17.2 °C (63 °F) | 7.0 °C (45 °F) | 233.2 | 728.3 mm (29 in) |
Distant islands[edit | edit source]
| Island(s) | Climate type | Coordinates | January max. temp | January min. temp | July max. temp | July min. temp | No. clear days | Annual precipitation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ball's Pyramid | Cfa | 31°45′15″S 159°15′06″E | 28 °C (82 °F) | 23 °C (73 °F) | 26 °C (79 °F) | 23 °C (73 °F) | 8 | 2,199 mm (87 in) |
| Chesterfield Islands | Am | 19˚ to 22˚S & between 158–160˚E | 25 °C (77 °F) | 19 °C (66 °F) | 18 °C (64 °F) | 14 °C (57 °F) | 41 | 1,286 mm (51 in) |
| Elizabeth Reef | Am | WikiMiniAtlas 29°57′25″S 159°4′32″E | 28 °C (82 °F) | 23 °C (73 °F) | 26 °C (79 °F) | 23 °C (73 °F) | 8 | 2,199 mm (87 in) |
| Lord Howe Island | Cfa | 31°33′15″S 159°05′06″E | 25 °C (77 °F) | 21 °C (70 °F) | 19 °C (66 °F) | 14 °C (57 °F) | 68 | 1,464 mm (58 in) |
| Macquarie Island | ET | 54.63°S 158.86°E | 9 °C (48 °F) | 5 °C (41 °F) | 5 °C (41 °F) | 2 °C (36 °F) | 4 | 993 mm (39 in) |
| Matthew and Hunter Islands | Cfa | 22°22′S 171°43′E | 25 °C (77 °F) | 19 °C (66 °F) | 18 °C (64 °F) | 14 °C (57 °F) | 41 | 1,286 mm (51 in) |
| Middleton Reef | Am | 29°27′28″S159°7′7″E | 28 °C (82 °F) | 23 °C (73 °F) | 26 °C (79 °F) | 23 °C (73 °F) | 8 | 2,199 mm (87 in) |
| Norfuk Island | Cfa | 29.056°S 167.961°E | 25 °C (77 °F) | 19 °C (66 °F) | 18 °C (64 °F) | 14 °C (57 °F) | 41 | 1,286 mm (51 in) |
Precipitation[edit | edit source]
Rain[edit | edit source]
ore than 80% of New Duveland has an annual rainfall of no less than 1,000 mm (40 in), but varies greatly between the east and west coasts, as places such as Mowhiti in southern McKenzie can receive upwards of 4,000mm (157 in) annually, compared to Saint-Paul in the arid north-west coast of Lapérouse, which receives just over 200mm (7.87 in) annually, using dependant in the cyclone season and remains otherwise dry throughout the rest of the year. The New Duveland annual record for rainfall was set at in the Mangaotaki Valley in southern McKenzie, at just over 16,000mm (630 in). Generally speaking, the east and southern coasts can experience 10 time the amount of rainfall that the west coast does annually, largely due to the enormous rain shadow put in by the Tasman Ranges.
The southern parts of New Duveland get the usual westerly winds and rain-bearing cold fronts that come when high–pressure systems move towards northern New Duveland during winter. Cold snaps bring frosts inland, though temperatures near the coast are mild or near mild all year round.
Snow[edit | edit source]
In New Duveland, snow falls frequently on the highlands in the south and centre of both the mainland and also in Norfolk, and has been recorded in every province and territory except for New Caledonia and the Montmaneu Islands. There is a regular guaranteed snow season in several areas which have seasonal ski tourism industries, such as Korakonui, Tihaka Village, Hikurangi Village and Taneatua Peak Ski Resort, among others. Ski tourism in the south within eastern Moanarua and western McKenzie can be maintained all-year. Snow also falls with some regularity in the Northern Tasman Ranges as far north as the Olympic Mountains in northern Lapérouse. In the southern Tasman ranges, along the border with Moanarua and McKenzie, snowfall occurs year-round, helping with the formation of thousands of glaciers across the mountains.
Snow at sea level is occasionally recorded in New Duveland, and is most frequent in southern McKenzie where snowfalls at sea level can occur during the winter months. Snow has been recorded across most of Tasmania, though it is rare on the north eastern coast at sea level. Snow is rare in the southernmost capitals like Lisburn and Tasbury, falling less than once every five years, and in the other capitals it is unknown (however snow has fallen in the hill suburbs of Cascade and Plymouth). There are extensive, well-developed ski fields in the Tasman Ranges, a few hours' drive from Tasbury and Lisburn. Regular seasonal snow generally falls every winter in other cities including Cashel, Totara, Wicklow and Gracefield in McKenzie.
The occasional cold snap, caused by cold air drifting north from Antarctica, can cause significant snowfall in rural areas, as well as major cities such as Lisburn, Tasburys's outer mountain suburbs and Cascade. Such occasions are rare, but have occurred in 1958, 1965, 1986, 2005 and 2015, the 1965 event causing snow to fall as far north as Évrard, in far north Lapérouse. Extreme snow events have also produced snow as far north-west as Monné in Lapérouse and also in lowland towns such as Oaklesigh and Dunloy in McKenzie. The frequency and intensity of such events have been decreasing significantly over the past 40 years and the most northerly occurrence of snow in this time frame has been the Bunya Mountains in the Olympic Mountains of northern Lapérouse.
Temperatures[edit | edit source]
Temperatures in New Duveland have followed an increasing trend between the years of 1910 to 2004 by approximately 0.7 °C. Overnight minimum temperatures have warmed more rapidly than daytime maximum temperatures. The observed warming has hastened in recent years. The late-20th-century warming has been largely attributed to the increased greenhouse effect. Temperature differences between winter and summer are minor in the northern regions of New Duveland such as New Caledonia and Lapérouse. However, they are greatest in the central west, with seasonal differences along the coast being moderated by the ocean's proximity. In July, a more common latitudinal distribution of average maximums is apparent, ranging from 30 °C near the north coast to below 3 °C in the mountainous areas of the south.
Average minimum temperatures in all seasons are highest in northern New Duveland and near the coastal areas, and are lowest in the elevated areas of the south. The highest average January minimum temperatures (near 23 °C) are found near the north-west coast, while in winter they exceed 17 °C in New Caledonia. In the mountainous regions of the southern provinces, it is not unusual to have average low minimum temperatures dipping below 0 °C in January and −10 °C in July.
Along the arid north-west coast of Lapérouse, dry air and clear skies give rather large ranges in temperature between day and night. Ranges of 15 °C being typical and 20 °C not quite unusual. Light nighttime frosts in winter occur over much of the western arid zone, where mean July minimum temperatures are mostly in the 3 to 6 °C range. Moving north, frosts become increasingly rare, with mean July minimum being around 10 °C on the northern boundary.
The highest maximums in New Duveland are recorded exclusively in the Petit Désert Côtier desert of north-western Lapérouse. Many locations in this region have recorded temperatures exceeding 47 °C. In January, average maximum temperatures exceed 35 °C over a large area of the interior and exceed 40 °C over areas in the north-west. The highest summer maximums in the Petit Désert Côtier average at around 41 °C (in some years daily maximums consecutively exceed 40 °C for several weeks at a time).
Extremes[edit | edit source]
| Record | Measurement | Location | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Highest temperature | 47.8°C (118.04°F) | Saint-Paul, Lapérouse | 25 December 1980 |
| Lowest temperature | −34.2°C (-29.56°F) | Carnaween Valley, McKenzie | 7 August 2020 |
| Highest rainfall in an hour | 101 mm (4.0 in) | Mangaotaki Valley, McKenzie | 8 January 2004 |
| Highest rainfall in 24 hours | 697 mm (27.4 in) | Mangaotaki Valley, McKenzie | 27–28 December 1989 |
| Highest rainfall in a calendar year | 16,032 mm (631.2 in) | Mangaotaki Valley, McKenzie | 1998 |
| Lowest rainfall in a calendar year | 155 mm (6.1 in) | Saint-Paul, Lapérouse | 1964 |
| Highest wind gust | 250 km/h (160 mph) | Kaitiaki Maunga, McKenzie | 18 April 1970 |
| Highest sunshine in a month | 401 hours | Léandry, Lapérouse | January 2015 |
| Highest sunshine in a calendar year | 3200 hours | Plymouth, Tasman | 2016 |
| Lowest sunshine in a month | 27 hours | Tawatahi, McKenzie | June 2002 |
| Lowest sunshine in a calendar year | 1333 hours | Ararata, McKenzie | 1983 |
Natural hazards and disasters[edit | edit source]
Bushfires[edit | edit source]
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Bushfires in New Duveland are becoming increasingly commonplace, with one or two major bushfires now occurring annually, mostly occurring in western Lapérouse and Tasman.
The most destructive fires are usually preceded by extreme high temperatures, low relative humidity and strong winds, which combine to create ideal conditions for the rapid spread of fire. Severe fire storms are often named according to the day on which they peaked, such as the most destructive fires in New Duveland's history occurred over the summer of 2019-2020, known locally as Ash Thursday, where systems than contributed to the 2019–20 Australian bushfire season also impacted Tasman, specifically the Maunga Kaupoi mountains on the province's west coast, near the towns of Exmouth and Ngakuta. It is estimated that the 2019–2020 bushfires led to the deaths of at least 20 people and over 200,000 birds and reptiles, making it one of New Duveland's worst natural disasters on record.
As bushfires are a rare phenomenon in New Duveland, the native flora and fauna has not had the luxury of developing specialised adaptations, leading to most areas being scared for years afterwards. Although intervention and prevention from local and national Governments have implemented a 'regrowth' scheme that aims to regrow affected areas quicker, and have also adapted to forest management schemes as found in Australia, such as planned burn-offs in at-risk areas and awareness campaigns to the general public.
Many fires are as a result of either deliberate arson or carelessness, however these fires normally happen in readily accessible areas and are rapidly brought under control. Man-made events include arcing from overhead power lines, arson, accidental ignition in the course of agricultural clearing, grinding and welding activities, campfires, cigarettes and dropped matches, sparks from machinery, and controlled burn escapes. They spread based on the type and quantity of fuel that is available. Fuel can include everything from trees, underbrush and dry grassy fields to homes. Wind supplies the fire with additional oxygen pushing the fire across the land at a faster rate. Electric power lines being brought down or arcing in high winds have also caused fires. In recent times most major bush fires have been started in remote areas by dry lightning. Some reports indicate that a changing climate could also be contributing to the ferocity of the 2019–20 fires with hotter, drier conditions making bushfires in the country increasingly more common. During periods of drought, the fuel for wildfires is greater than normal, and bushfires combine to become megafires, generating their own weather and spreading fire further.
Flooding[edit | edit source]
Flooding in New Duveland is not uncommon, and during the La Niña years the entirety of the landmass records above-average rainfall usually creating damaging floods.
The 2010–2011 La Niña system broke many rainfall records in New Duveland, particularly in the provinces of Devereaux and Lapérouse, with extensive flooding and major damage to infrastructure and crops, with damages reaching into the billions.
Some places that see heavy monthly (or yearly) rainfall include: Mangaotaki, Makarora, Tihaka, Hikurangi Village, Cashel, Hunter, Te Kuiti and Rutherglen.
Drought[edit | edit source]
Drought in New Duveland are defined by the New Duveland Bureau of Meteorology as rainfall over a two-month period being in the lowest decile of what has been recorded for that region in the past. This definition takes into account that drought is a relative term and rainfall deficiencies need to be compared to typical rainfall patterns including seasonal variations. Specifically, drought in New Duveland is defined in relation to a rainfall deficiency of pastoral leases and is determined by decile analysis applied to a certain area. Note that this definition uses rainfall only because long-term records are widely available across most of New Duveland. However, it does not take into account other variables that might be important for establishing surface water balance, such as evaporation and condensation.
Historical climatic records are now sufficiently reliable to profile climate variability taking into account expectations for regions. the New Duveland Bureau of Meteorology records since the 1860s show that a 'severe' drought has occurred in New Duveland, on average, once every 30 years. Provincial Governments are responsible for declaring a region drought affected and the declaration will take into account factors other than rainfall.
Tropical cyclones[edit | edit source]
New Duveland is affected by tropical cyclones which primarily occur between December and April but have occasionally developed in November and May. Cyclones over mainland New Duveland are rare, but can occur once every couple of years. New Caledonia, and to a lesser extent northern Lapérouse are most prone to cyclones. Tropical cyclones are known to bring destructive winds, heavy rain with flooding creating storm surges along the coast, causing inundation to low-lying areas. The strongest recent cyclone in New Duveland was 2022's Cyclone Niran, with gusts topping 260 km/h (160 mph) that directly hit New Caledonia. Cyclones can also move inland, decaying to rain depressions, dumping heavy rain and causing flooding. Cyclones are known to follow both the east and west coasts and produce damaging winds and flooding to all provinces.
The worst cyclones of New Duveland have caused billions of dollars of damage and many deaths, with the most notable cyclones being Cyclone Fran, Cyclone Niran, Cyclone Erica, Cyclone Gita, Cyclone Esau, Cyclone Jasmine, Cyclone Cook and Cyclone Lusi. With Cyclone Erica severely affected New Caledonia and was considered the worst to affect the island since Cyclone Beti in 1996. Erica caused intense winds and heavy rain, with an estimated 892 families were affected by the cyclone on the island, and two people were killed. As many as 60% of people on the west coast lost power. On 17 March only 17 of the 66 secondary schools on the island were functioning. After the storm it was feared that the existing dengue fever epidemic on the island would spread. Erica caused $15 million (2003 USD) in damages, primarily on New Caledonia.
The most recent cyclone, Cyclone Niran made impact In New Caledonia in 2021, and was reported that many houses had their roofs destroyed and infrastructure damaged, and nearly 70,000 people lost power in total. Multiple roads became impassable. Two people in New Caledonia were injured, though no one was killed. Total economic losses reached $200 million (2021 USD).
Blizzards[edit | edit source]
Blizzards are common at high-altitude areas in the southern provinces of Moanarua and McKenzie, and have been recorded on occasion in mountainous regions of Tasman and Devereaux. Blizzards do not affect any major cities, with the only larger towns being Hunter, Lake Waitiki, Makarora, Matira, Totara and Tepene deep in the highlands of Moanarua and McKenzie have been known to experience the rare blizzard during the most intense winters. Otherwise the only exception are isolated ski resort towns. Occasionally The Mountain Pass Line, the main train connection, as well as the A3 motorway between Tasbury and Lisburn has had to be shut down where the elevation of both networks reaches over 1,000m around the area close to Bluestack Mountain and Tehiwi Mangu due to blizzards, with the last time this route was shut down in 2011.
Dust storms[edit | edit source]
Dust storms or sandstorms are very rare in New Duveland, and have only been witnessed in extreme conditions where dust has been blown across from Australia, such as the 2009 Australian dust storm that affected the entirety of New Duveland from McKenzie to New Caledonia. The storm arrived in the western provinces by the 24th of September 2009, and continued over to the eastern provinces later the same day.
Climate change[edit | edit source]
Climate change in New Duveland involves historical, current and future changes in the climate; and New Duveland 's contribution and response to global climate change.
Summers are becoming longer and hotter, and some glaciers have melted completely and others have shrunk.
In 2021, the Ministry for the Environment estimated that New Duveland's gross emissions were 0.22% of the world's total gross greenhouse gas emissions. However, on a per capita basis, New Duveland is a significant emitter, the tenth highest within the Annex I countries, whereas on absolute gross emissions New Duveland is ranked as the 30th highest emitter.
Almost half New Duveland's greenhouse gas emissions are from agriculture, mainly methane from sheep and cow belches. Between 1990 and 2019, New Duveland's gross emissions (excluding removals from land use and forestry) increased by 25%. When the uptake of carbon dioxide by forests (sequestration) is taken into account, net emissions (including carbon removals from land use and forestry) have also risen – by 30% since 1990.
Climate change is being responded to in a variety of ways by civil society and the New Duveland Government. This includes participation in international treaties and in social and political debates related to climate change. New Duveland has an emissions trading scheme, and in 2015 the government introduced a Climate Change Response Bill which created a Climate Change Commission responsible for advising government led policies.
See also[edit | edit source]
- Biodiversity of New Duveland
- Geography of New Duveland
- National Parks of New Duveland
- Biodiversity of New Duveland
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