A warmer atmosphere and ocean means stronger winds can circulate around the world and impact exposed places.

Expected impacts  

Christchurch typically gets an average of 121 windy days per year, when the wind speed exceeds 36 kilometres per hour.  

Wind speeds may increase up to 10% by 2100, and we could see more hot, dry winds from the northwest.  

What this means  

  • Trees, buildings and power lines could be damaged more frequently by strong winds.
  • Fire risks can increase during hot, dry and windy weather.  
  • Hot and dry winds will dry soil and plants more quickly, increasing demand for irrigation and placing pressure on water resources.  
  • Cycling, walking and high-sided vehicles, such as trucks, caravans, and motorhomes, could be more affected by wind.
  • Wind-blown dust and pollen may be more of a problem for people who suffer from asthma and hay fever.
  • Stronger winds can make bigger waves along coastlines and lakes, posing greater risks to water users and increasing erosion.
  • Wind can remove topsoil from exposed farmland.
  • Wind-powered electricity generation may become more viable.

What you can do before the storm

  • Secure or stow away items that may move during strong winds, such as outdoor furniture and trampolines.  
  • Make sure you have enough supplies to last a few days, including other ways to cook, heat and light your home if the power is cut.  
  • Plant trees along your most wind-exposed boundary, but far enough away so falling branches don’t cause harm to your home. Speak to your local garden centre to find the best plants for your property's size and location.
  • Weatherstripping around the garage door can stop wind, rain and debris from entering. This can reduce the risk of your garage door failing in high winds. It’s easy to self-install and readily available at your local hardware store.
  • In exposed places, install external window shutters to protect your windows from strong winds and increase your home’s resilience to other natural hazards such as high heat and fire.

What you can do during the storm

  • Be aware of forecasts and weather warnings so you can act well ahead of time. Keep up to date with the latest weather information from the Metservice, radio or TV.  
  • Avoid travelling during periods of extreme wind. Stay inside and bring your pets inside too.  
  • Lock windows and doors to prevent damage to your property and pull curtains or blinds to prevent injury from broken glass.  
  • Open a small window on the side of the building away from the wind to relieve pressure on the roof.  
  • Unplug small appliances that could be affected by electrical power surges or lightning strikes.

What we’re doing 

  • Street tree maintenance – We maintain street trees to keep them well clear of overhead wires. Most new subdivisions are using underground wires to avoid disruptions to services.  
  • Emergency preparedness and response – Emergency Management Canterbury has response plans for severe wind and storm events and will support communities when it’s safe to do so. Learn more at Emergency Management Canterbury(external link).
  • Resilient electricity network and rapid response – Orion is our local electricity distribution network provider owned by Christchurch City and Selwyn district councils. Orion maintains the network to ensure it's resilient and rapidly responds to outages. Learn more at Orion(external link).