By Moana Ellis, Local Democracy Reporting
Manawatū-Whanganui Emergency Management is urging residents and visitors to prepare for potentially serious weather around Labour Weekend, with MetService forecasting heavy rain and winds across parts of the region.
Group controller Craig Grant said parts of the region had already been hit by severe weather in the past two weeks, and more rain and wind were on the way.
“Forecasts predict a low to the west travelling from Australia on Thursday, causing an associated front to move across central New Zealand,” Grant said.
The system is expected to bring potentially damaging severe northwest gales to exposed places in Tararua District. There is a strong wind warning for all of the Tararua District from 10am until 10pm on Thursday, with severe gale northwesterlies gusting 120km per hour in exposed places.
There is also a strong rain warning for the Tararua Range from 10am until 8pm on Thursday.
“People should expect 70 to 100mm of rain, with peak rates of 15 to 25mm per hour on Thursday afternoon and evening, with thunderstorms possible,” Grant said.
Tararua District was still recovering from Tuesday’s weather, which caused multiple power outages, ripped roofing iron from houses, and brought heavy rain to some areas.
“People in Tararua District should take precautionary measures ahead of the strong winds, such as either tying down or moving inside objects such as garden furniture, pot plants and trampolines.
“Further damage to trees, powerlines and unsecured structures is possible. Driving may be difficult, especially for high-sided vehicles such as campervans and lighter vehicles such as motorcycles.”
Grant said people thinking of travelling in this weather should take caution and pay attention to the conditions.
He also urged those planning to camp or travel over the long weekend to be well prepared.
“People travelling to the area for camping or recreation during the long weekend should ensure they are prepared for the weather. Take plenty of supplies, and be sure to have a radio with a list of key frequencies,” he said.
Catchments across the region are already saturated, and waterways could rise quickly if there is further heavy rain.
“People camping near waterways should keep this in mind. Keep an eye on the forecast and waterways, and be prepared to move.
“It is always better to move earlier rather than later. If in doubt, delay or postpone your trips.”
While it was too early to predict Monday’s conditions with certainty, early forecasts showed more rain was possible.
“We will learn more as we get closer to Monday, but currently it appears there will be another front similar to what we have experienced recently moving north through the region,” Grant said. “We’ll be keeping a close eye on the situation throughout the long weekend, with staffing organised.”
He said people could keep up to date with key information on this weather event on the Manawatū-Whanganui Civil Defence Facebook page.
“If at any time you, your family and/or your property are at risk, immediately contact emergency services on 111.”
Awa FM – Te Reo Irirangi o Whanganui
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