A wind turbine on a boat in Napier's inner harbour, off Meeanee Quay, Napier, catches the late afternoon sun. Photo / Duncan Brown
Severe gales gusting up to 110km/h are expected to hammer the region this morning, with a caution issued to motorists and boaties warned not to head out to sea.
MetService meteorologist Elke Louw said a severe weather watch had been in force for Hawke's Bay overnight, due to a chance
of severe gales, gusting up to 110km/h in exposed places, easing from 11am today and remaining "blustery" for the rest of the day.
The gales would hit hard about the hills and ranges, where a funnelling effect was possible, and be felt to a lesser degree in Napier and Hastings' city centres.
"Motorists driving high-sided vehicles and cyclists could be blown over," Ms Louw said.
Residents were also advised to keep up to date with the latest weather forecasts.
