Hoan To: Propagation pathways of heavy rainfall events by Atmospheric Rivers (AR-HREs) in New Zealand

Owing to its distinctive geographic setting and mountainous terrains, New Zealand is particularly susceptible to flooding when ARs make landfall. Knowing the spatial and temporal characteristics of AR-induced heavy rainfall events (AR-HREs) could provide valuable insights for improving extreme weather prediction, yet they remain insufficiently understood.

This study aims to identify spatial patterns of landfalling ARs and key propagation pathways of AR-HREs across New Zealand using a climate network approach. Network analysis shows that AR-HREs in the South Island predominantly propagate from the Southland Region towards West Coast Region, showcasing the northeast direction. In the North Island, the observed propagation patterns follow a southeasterly direction.