The MetService has issued a warning about strong winds predicted to hit the South Island as a front approaches. "Strong wind gusts could damage trees, powerlines and unsecured structures," it said. A strong wind warning is in place tomorrow and Friday for Fiordland south of Doubtful Sound, Southland, Stewart Island and Clutha. These areas are predicted to experience severe northwest gales gusting 130km/h in exposed places. The areas of Southern Lakes, Central Otago, North Otago and Dunedin have a strong wind watch and are predicted to have northwest winds may approach severe gale force in exposed places.

Source: Otago Daily Times January 28, 2020 21:22 UTC