Weather: Strong wind causes power outages for Ruapehu, Whanganui regions, thunderstorm advisory in place

A thunderstorm advisory is in place for parts of the Ruapehu Region and inland Whanganui. Photo / Fin Ocheduszko Brown

Strong winds and heavy rain in parts of northern Whanganui and Ruapehu have resulted in power outages for many properties.

Approximately 190 properties up the Whanganui River including Rānana and Jerusalem are without power as of 10am, with no estimation on when it will be fixed.

A further 110 properties in Raetihi are awaiting restoration of power, which went out at 12.47pm yesterday.

A tree that has fallen on a power line has left large parts of Ōhakune without power, with restoration estimated around noon.

Ruapehu power supplier The Lines Company said its network “took a bit of a hammering last night” and they are aware of several areas without power.

There are currently five teams on the ground working through the areas to fix the issues.

A thunderstorm advisory is in place from noon through to midnight today for Ruapehu and inland Whanganui areas.

If they come to fruition, people can expect sharp downpours of 10-25mm/h and severe east-to-southeast gales with gusts of 120km/h in exposed places.

The strong wind is forecast to ease off throughout the day, however.

Damage to trees, powerlines and unsecured structures is possible and driving may be difficult, especially for high-sided vehicles and motorcycles.

Civil Defence Manawatū Whanganui has advised people in the areas affected to unplug major appliances, not use candles as they’re a fire risk, treat all downed lines and electrical equipment as live at all times and to have a solar or battery-powered radio so you can keep up with the latest news and alerts.

If people are medically dependent on power, in an emergency call 111 or go to the nearest medical centre.

Fin Ocheduszko Brown is a multimedia journalist based in Whanganui.