Severe Thunderstorm warning
Metservice has issued a severe thunderstorm warning for people in the following local areas:
Marlborough, Christchurch and Canterbury Plains
Hurunui, Selwyn and Waimakariri
Darfield, Glentunnel, Hororata, Oxford, Sheffield, Kirwee and Charing Cross.
Cust, Eyrewell Forest and West Eyreton
Oxford, Rangiora, Ashley Forest, Lees Valley
These thunderstorms are expected to be accompanied by very heavy rain, large hail and damaging wind gusts.
What you need to know:
- Very heavy rain can cause surface and/or flash flooding about streams, gullies and urban areas, and make driving conditions extremely hazardous.
- Large hail can cause significant damage to crops, orchards, vines, glasshouses and vehicles, and make driving conditions hazardous.
- Very strong wind gusts can break branches from trees, damage roofing, and make driving hazardous especially for high-sided vehicles and motorcycles.
The National Emergency Management Agency advises that as storms approach you should:
- Take shelter, preferably indoors away from windows;
- Avoid sheltering under trees, if outside;
- Get back to land, if outdoors on the water;
- Move cars under cover or away from trees;
- Secure any loose objects around your property;
- Check that drains and gutters are clear;
- Be ready to slow down or stop, if driving.
During and after the storm, you should also:
- Beware of fallen trees and power lines;
- Avoid streams and drains as you may be swept away in flash flooding.
Keep up to date with active MetService warnings here.
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Poll: Would you want an unconventional funeral?
Funerals can cost as much as $22,000 and the planning can be stressful especially at a time when loved ones are grieving. Some New Zealanders are re-imagining funerals by making their own coffin or having a relaxed ceremony at home. Would you want a less traditional funeral? Share your thoughts below.
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83.6% Yes
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14.2% No
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2.3% Other - I'll share below!