Severe weather and large waves expected over the weekend

Published on 22 July 2016

MetService has issued a severe weather warning for the Whanganui District over the weekend, warning of severe gale northwesterlies gusting 120km/h and possibly higher. This could cause potential wind damage and debris, trees down and a possibility of power interruptions.

Horizons Regional Council predicts these extreme winds to generate large waves along the Whanganui coastline. These are expected to increase over the weekend, reaching as high as 7 metres by Sunday evening.

Combined with high tides these could pose a threat of unpredictable surf and coastal erosion in vulnerable areas.

Whanganui District Council Emergency Manager Matt Smith advises anyone in the coastal area to exercise extreme caution near cliffs and along the coast this weekend. This includes Mowhanau, the North Mole, as well as Castlecliff Beach and South Beach.

Residents are advised to secure loose outdoor items on their property, have their emergency supplies on hand in case of power outages and to drive to the conditions if travelling.