Weather
Gale northwest to southwest winds for parts of southern and central New Zealand today
A deep low just south of Fiordland is moving slowly eastwards today and its associated cold front moves northeast over the country. This low pressure system is expected to bring gale northwest to southwest winds to parts of southern and central New Zealand. These winds could be damaging about the south coast of the South Island and Stewart Island.
People are advised to stay up to date with the latest forecasts in case parts of these Watches are upgraded to an Orange Warning or further areas are added.
Strong wind gusts could damage trees, powerlines and unsecured structures. Driving may be hazardous, especially for high-sided vehicles and motorcycles.
Area: Fiordland and Southland, including Stewart Island
Valid: 14 hours from 3:00am to 5:00pm Saturday
Forecast: Northwest winds may approach severe gale at times gusting 120 km/h in exposed places during Saturday morning. However, there will be a change to severe gale southwesterlies gusting 130 km/h around midday Saturday, especially about coastal Fiordland and Southland, also Stewart Island.
Area: Dunedin and Clutha
Valid: 9 hours from 11:00am to 8:00pm Saturday
Forecast: Severe gale west to southwest winds gusting 120 km/h at times, but could reach 130 km/h about exposed parts of coastal Clutha.
Strong Wind Watch
Area: Central Otago and Southern Lakes
Valid: 10 hours from 5:00am to 3:00pm Saturday
Forecast: West to northwest winds may approach severe gale at times.
Area: North Otago
Valid: 9 hours from 4:00pm Saturday to 1:00am Sunday
Forecast: West to southwest winds may approach severe gale at times.