Severe gales of up to 150km/h are lashing parts of New Zealand today, prompting red strong wind warnings for much of the South Island’s eastern regions and southern areas of the North Island.
Canterbury’s High Country is facing the fiercest winds, with gusts reaching 150km/h in exposed areas until 5pm. Christchurch and the Canterbury Plains are also under red warnings until 4pm, with winds expected to hit 140km/h.
The wild weather has disrupted travel nationwide, forcing the cancellation of more than 100 flights. The powerful winds have also led to the cancellation of New Zealand Educational Institute Te Riu Roa strike rallies in Wellington, Wairarapa and Canterbury.
A local state of emergency was declared for Canterbury on Wednesday as conditions worsened and even stronger gusts were forecast. Heavy rain is compounding the chaos across the South Island, with some areas expected to receive up to 150mm more rain on top of earlier downpours.
In the North Island, Wellington and Wairarapa south of Carterton are also under red wind warnings until 7pm, with gusts possibly reaching 140km/h in exposed locations.
Authorities are urging residents to secure loose objects, stay indoors where possible, and avoid unnecessary travel until the severe weather passes.
Updates are available on the MetService website.
