High winds cut power to parts of Auckland and brought down trees across the region today.
Gale force winds and severe thunderstorms hit the region shortly after midday.
A Fire Service spokesman said they had received an influx of calls about power lines and trees being down across Auckland.
Vector spokeswoman Sandy Hodge said power was out to parts of Waiheke Island and Maraetai after falling trees caused feeder faults.
Witnesses said drivers on Auckland's motorways used hazard lights and some pulled over to the side.
Stormwater drains overflowed and flooding stalled traffic on some of Auckland's arterial routes including Dominion Rd and Fanshawe St.
A police communications spokesman said a roof had been lifted on a building in Hobson St but was eventually secured. The street was closed for a short time from Cook St down.
Aucklanders took to Twitter as the storm hit.
Bill Ralston tweeted: "Franklin Rd is now Franklin Falls. Whitewater rapids down the street past our place that are suitable of ambitious kayakers."
"Worst driving conditions. Actual feared for my life just then," said @Amysanwaaa.
Alexander Comms tweetetd: "Cats and dogs in Auckland today! Hope everyone is safe and tucked up inside."
Staff at KFC in Ponsonby tweeted they had to shut the doors after rain got into the electrical switchboard.
MetService had warned a line of severe thunderstorms was expected across Auckland city before 2pm. Its prediction was pretty much on the money, with the weather clearing soon after.
- Fairfax NZ News
No comments:
Post a Comment