Source: Auckland Council
MetService has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Watch and a Strong Wind Warning (orange) for Auckland, including Aotea Great Barrier, for this afternoon, evening and into the early hours of Thursday morning.
Auckland Emergency Management Acting General Manager Adam Maggs urges Aucklanders to plan ahead for a windy afternoon and evening.
“Forecasters expect very gusty conditions across the Auckland region so it’s important that Aucklanders plan ahead.
“While we’re not telling people to go home immediately, it is important to keep a close eye on any updates to the weather forecast and plan travel very carefully.
“This means keeping up to date with advice from Auckland Transport and NZTA Waka Kotahi on any impacts to the roading network, public transport services and potential Auckland Harbour Bridge closures.
“If you are out, drive to the conditions – watch your speed and if you don’t need to be on the roads this afternoon or evening, you can help avoid any pressure on transport networks by staying in or delaying your trip.
“High winds can bring trees down and affect power services, so if you’re in an area prone to power outages, now is a good time to make sure you have a plan in place to do without power for a short period of time.
“Trees down on public property can be reported to Auckland Council via our website, and phone us on 09 301 0101 for stormwater blockages or issues,” says Mr Maggs.
MetService meteorologist Georgina Griffiths says Aucklanders are in for an extremely windy afternoon and evening.
“We expect winds to peak this afternoon and evening with wind speeds significantly higher than those we have seen this morning, and expect gusts to become more frequent too.
“We’re also seeing bursts of thunderstorms, however these will be fast-moving with brief periods of heavy rain and the wind conditions are of greater concern,” she says.
Public transport customers are encouraged to check AT’s Journey Planner or the AT Mobile App for updates today. To stay up to date on the latest state highway information, check the NZTA Journey Planner.
