Before a storm

When a warning is issued and during a storm



After a storm


Major storms affect wide areas and can be accompanied by strong winds, heavy rain or snowfall, thunder, lightning, tornadoes and rough seas. They can cause damage to property and infrastructure, affect crops and livestock, disrupt essential services, and cause coastal inundation.

Severe Weather Watches and Warnings are issued by the MetService and available through the broadcast media, by email alerts, and at Metservice.






  • Don't walk around outside and avoid driving unless absolutely necessary.



In a snowstorm, the primary concerns are the potential loss of heat, power and telephone service, and a shortage of supplies if storm conditions continue for more than a day. It is important for people living in areas at risk from snowstorms to consider the need for alternative forms of heating and power generation.

  • Avoid leaving home unless absolutely necessary when a snow warning is issued.
  • If you have to travel make sure you are well prepared with snow chains, sleeping bags, warm clothing and essential emergency items.
  • At home, check fuel supplies for woodburners, gas heaters, barbeques and generators.
  • Bring pets inside. Move domestic animals and stock to shelter.
  • If you are caught in your car or truck in a snowstorm, stay in your vehicle. Run the engine every ten minutes to keep warm. Drink fluids to avoid dehydration. Open the window a little to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Make yourself visible to rescuers by tying a bright-coloured cloth to your radio aerial or door and keeping the inside light on.



Tornadoes sometimes occur during thunderstorms in some parts of New Zealand. A tornado is a narrow, violently rotating column of air extending downwards to the ground from the base of a thunderstorm. Warning signs include a long, continuous roar or rumble or a fast approaching cloud of debris which can sometimes be funnel shaped.

  • Alert others if you can.
  • Take shelter immediately. A basement offers the greatest safety. If underground shelter is not available, move to an interior room without windows on the lowest floor. Get under sturdy furniture and cover yourself with a mattress or blanket.
  • If caught outside, get away from trees if you can. Lie down flat in a nearby gully, ditch or low spot and protect your head.
  • If in a car, get out immediately and look for a safe place to shelter. Do not try to outrun a tornado or get under the vehicle for shelter.



  • Look for and report broken utility lines to appropriate authorities.