Weather warnings for wind and heavy rain are in place for Wairarapa and the Wellington region.
Please take care if you are returning home from a weekend away.
With wind warnings in place, there is a chance State Highway 2 at Remutaka Hill could be affected.
If you’re travelling towards across the Hill road on SH2, consider getting on the road in the morning, late evening, or delaying till Tuesday to avoid the risk and frustration of a closed hill.
Details below. For more information, follow Wellington Region Emergency Management Office on Facebook.
You may find out more about weather warnings at:
Strong Wind Warning – Orange
- Area: Wairarapa and Tararua District
- Period: 9hrs from 2:00pm Mon to 11:00pm Mon
- Forecast: Severe gale northwest winds gusting 120 km/h in exposed places. Note: northwest winds may also approach gale in exposed places from Sunday afternoon through to dawn Monday. If the wind gusts increase, there is a possibility of the Remutaka Hill having to close at different times. Please plan your journey with travel options in case the hill does close. Minimal chance of upgrading to a Red Warning.
- Impact: Damage to trees, powerlines, and unsecured structures possible. Driving may be difficult, especially for high-sided vehicles and motorcycles.
- Action: Prepare your property by securing items that can be picked up by strong winds. Drive cautiously.
Heavy Rain Warning – Orange
- Area: Tararua Range
- Period: 15hrs from 2:00pm Mon to 5:00am Tue
- Forecast: Expect 120 to 150 mm of rain, with possible thunderstorms. Peak rates of 20 to 25 mm/h expected Monday evening and overnight Monday.
- Minimal chance of upgrading to a Red Warning.
- Impact: Streams and rivers may rise rapidly. Surface flooding, slips, and difficult driving conditions possible.
- Action: Clear your drains and gutters to prepare for heavy rain. Avoid low-lying areas and drive cautiously.