Powerful winds have forced the closure of part of Wellington’s waterfront road after cyclists were knocked off their bikes and wing mirrors were blown off cars on Monday afternoon.
Police closed a section of Oriental Parade and Evans Bay Parade shortly before 1pm on Monday 26 October, following reports of dangerous wind gusts along the exposed coastal route.
The original closure stretched from Carlton Gore Road in Oriental Bay around to Rata Road in Hataitai, where it meets Evans Bay Parade.
At 1.09pm, Police reduced the cordon, moving its southern end to the intersection of Evans Bay Parade and Maida Vale Road. The closure on Oriental Parade continued to begin at Carlton Gore Road.
The road closure comes as Wellington prepares for another period of severe weather overnight and into Tuesday morning.
MetService has issued an Orange Strong Wind Warning for Wellington from 6pm Monday until 10am Tuesday 27 October.
Severe northwest gales are forecast, with gusts reaching 120km/h in exposed places. The winds could damage trees, powerlines and unsecured structures, while making travel hazardous.
The warning covers Tuesday’s morning commute, with rain also expected as a weather front moves across the region.
Wellington Region Emergency Management Office (WREMO) warns that strong winds can bring down trees and powerlines, overturn unsecured objects and create dangerous conditions on roads.
Residents are encouraged to secure outdoor furniture, trampolines and other loose belongings before conditions deteriorate further.
Motorcyclists and drivers of high-sided vehicles should take particular care on exposed roads, while cyclists and pedestrians should avoid areas where powerful gusts could put them at risk.
Anyone travelling along Wellington’s waterfront or commuting on Tuesday morning should check the latest Police road closure updates and MetService warnings before setting out.
