Strong winds and severe weather conditions have left 9,000 homes without power in Wellington, causing significant disruptions across the city. The Wellington Electricity website reported power outages in over 30 areas, affecting more than 9,000 customers, and it's estimated that power may remain out for most of the day. As the situation unfolds, here's a breakdown of the impact:
- Transport Disruptions: Air NZ canceled flights in and out of Wellington Airport, and Cook Strait ferry services were also suspended. Metlink, the local train operator, canceled all trains until at least 10 a.m. to assess track conditions.
- Road Closures: Lower Hutt experienced gridlock, with emergency services unable to respond due to flooding. State Highway 58 was closed at Judgeford due to flooding, and State Highway 2 was closed to northbound traffic near the State Highway 58 offramp. Eastern Hutt Road in the Hutt Valley was also closed due to flooding, with no immediate local road detours available.
- State of Emergency: The Manawatu-Whanganui district declared a state of emergency, indicating the severity of the situation.
- Sewage Outfall: Sewage was flowing out of a short outfall onto the south coast, posing potential environmental concerns.
As the day progressed, State Highway 2 was reopened to northbound traffic in the Hutt Valley, but drivers can still expect delays due to ongoing slips, flooding, and lane closures. The situation remains dynamic, and residents are advised to stay informed and follow official guidance.
