Coromandel residents urged to prepare for power outages

Another fast moving front is forecast to race across the Coromandel Peninsula overnight and tomorrow morning, resulting in a Severe Weather watch announced by the Met Service this afternoon.

Strong winds last weekend caused major power loss in large parts of the District and the winds forecast overnight have the potential to cause the same problem again.

Severe localised westerly gales are expected and the risk of trees or debris hitting power lines is high.

Rain is unlikely to reach warning amounts, but local authorities are monitoring all possibilities.

Residents are reminded to pick up loose objects such as sheets of corrugated iron or recycling bins and make sure pets are suitably protected.

The Peninsula is an unpredictable place when it comes to weather warnings and long-time residents have learned they can't afford to be complacent about preparation.