Winds are reaching hurricane force in Otago this evening, with gusts to 124km/h at Dunedin airport and multiple power outages in the region.
The winds have caused damage to power lines and trees, and there is surface flooding in some areas. All flights in and out of Dunedin Airport were cancelled this evening and the airport briefly lost power and moved to its generator.
Police are urging motorists to take care on roads during the severe conditions and say emergency services are attending a number of jobs in Southland, including fallen trees blocking roads.
Power has been cut to more than 7000 homes across Dunedin and Otago, and lines company Delta warns their customers it may remain off overnight.
Delta says people in the affected areas should keep well clear of fallen power lines, be mindful of falling tree branches and to switch off appliances off at the wall to avoid possible damage when power is restored.
Newshub.
