Gale warning to batten down the trampolines to avoid power cuts

Wednesday, 31 January 2018

Gale force winds in Taranaki may keep kite surfers on land.

Hot sweltering weather conditions are set come to an abrupt end as power supply authorities warn home owners to prepare for strong gales up to 130kmph forecast to sweep the region.

A major storm, following tropical Cyclone Fehi, was expected to cross the North and South Islands bringing heavy rainfall and strong northerly gales to many regions.

Strong winds blew a trampoline onto the roof of a house in Patea last July. People are being urged to tie down such playthings to avoid a similar fate as bad weather closes in.

Taranaki residents, as well as homeowners in Wairarapa, Manawatu and Taihape, have been put on alert to secure trampolines, outdoor furniture and other heavy items that could blow into overhead lines cutting power supplies

Between 80mm-130mm of rainfall is forecast on Mt Taranaki to early Friday, at times peaking to 25mm-35mm, the Metservice warned.

* Scorchers to start the week but stormy weather's on the way**

There was the potential of strong wind gusts to damage trees, powerlines and unsecured structures from south Taranaki through to Wellington, Marlborough, Nelson and Canterbury on Thursday afternoon, it said.

Driving conditions could be hazardous, especially with high-sided vehicles and motorcycles, until winds ease in late evening.

Powerco Network operations manager Phil Marsh said any loose heavy items should be securely fixed to the ground.

'Wind-blown trampolines have caused multiple power cuts in previous storms.'

Downed power lines must be treated as live at all times and people need to stay at least 4m away from them.

Field crews are on standby ready to respond should severe gales and heavy rain arrive early Thursday as forecast, Marsh said.

Householders should prepare for possible power cuts and stock up on torches and batteries, and have a battery-powered radio.

'Make sure you have plenty of water and food supplies, and listen to the radio for up-to-date information.'

People should call 0800 272 727 (Powerco) or 111 for emergencies such as trees in power lines or lines down, he said.

Customers wanting information about power cuts can go to www.powerco.co.nz or call their electricity retailer.

Powerco served 442,000 consumers throughout the central and eastern North Island including Taranaki, Manawatu, Wairarapa, Whanganui, Hawkes Bay and parts of Waikato, Bay of Plenty and Coromandel.