Metservice has forecast a weather event for Auckland this evening and overnight, bringing strong winds and heavy rain, and the possibility of severe thunderstorms, making driving conditions hazardous.
Motorists are advised to drive to the conditions and be alert for surface water and flooding after heavy rain.
There is a possibility severe winds will force the closure of lanes on the Auckland Harbour Bridge on Sunday night, with wind gusts of 80-85km/h forecast between 6pm on Sunday and 9am on Monday.
Waka Kotahi is working closely with Metservice to monitor wind speeds with maintenance crews out on the network ready to react and close lanes on the bridge if wind gusts exceed threshold levels. The safety of road users is our top priority and we won’t hesitate to reduce speeds, close lanes or close the bridge if necessary.
Drivers of high sided vehicles and motorcyclists are encouraged to avoid the Auckland Harbour Bridge and use the Western Ring on State Highways 16 and 18.
Information on weather warnings and watches is available from Metservice.
