MetService has issued a Heavy Swell Warning for the Wairarapa from 9pm Wednesday 29 March to 9pm Thursday 30 March.
Southerly waves of 5 metres are predicted for Wednesday morning, rising to 7 metres early Thursday morning, then easing to 4 metres late Thursday evening.
These swells could cause damage and bring debris and some surface flooding to exposed coastal roads.
Impacted areas in South Wairarapa include Cape Palliser Road and Tora Farm Settlement Road.
The highest risk time are the 2 hours either side of High Tide. High Tide for Cape Palliser is 12:44am and 1:11pm Thursday.
Residents in exposed coastal areas that have been affected by swells in the past, should think about some ways they can reduce impacts on their property.
Residents should:
- park vehicles away from the seaward side of the road
- be prepared for surface flooding, debris in wave runup and deposition of driftwood, seaweed, sand and gravel on roads and coastal areas.
Surfers, divers, recreational reef fishers/surfcasters and boaties should avoid going onto the water.
Take care when walking or driving along roads directly exposed to the sea during this time. Swells can damage roads and cause surface flooding and debris wash up including driftwood, seaweed, sand and gravel. Check our Facebook page and website for road closures.
WREMO are urging people in these areas to be aware of coastal hazards and take steps towards getting prepared for events like this. This could include creating a household plan, getting to know who in their street may need extra assistance and having a grab bag ready, in case they need to leave quickly in future.
WREMO is working with MetService, Greater Wellington Regional Council, local councils and MetService to determine potential impacts and alert communities to the heavy swell warnings.
More Information
Check MetService for the latest weather updates. Sign up to severe weather warnings, including swell warnings, on the MetService website.
Follow the WREMO Facebook page.
Follow SWDC Facebook page for road closure alerts and check our website at www.swdc.govt.nz/road-alerts.
