Porirua residents are being warned to prepare for extreme weather on Thursday, with a Red Wind Warning in place across the Wellington region from 8 am to 6 pm.
MetService has forecast damaging gusts of up to 140km/h in exposed areas, while the Wellington Region Emergency Management Office (WREMO) is advising people to avoid unnecessary travel and work from home if possible.
“This is a serious weather event with the potential to cause widespread disruption,” WREMO said in a public advisory. “Prepare your property, secure loose items, and have a plan in case of power outages.”
Power cuts have already been reported in parts of the region, and further outages are expected as the wind picks up. Heavy coastal swells are forecast between Ōtaki and Cape Terawhiti, with the highest risk late Thursday morning into the evening.
Porirua City Council has shared the regional guidance and is urging residents to follow Metlink for public transport updates. Disruptions to trains and buses are likely, and traffic on State Highway 1 could worsen as more people opt to drive.
Residents are advised to stay indoors during peak winds, check on neighbours, and prepare emergency supplies, including a grab bag and alternative power options for medical devices.