Power cuts and road closures for the Hutt today

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

Almost 70 homes without power in the Akatarawa Valley face a long wait to have it restored, with slips cutting off access.

- Wellington Electricity is warning it could take up to 13 hours to restore power to the area in Upper Hutt, with slips blocking two access roads.
- Grays Rd in Plimmerton is closed this morning. The Riverbank carpark was closed but has since reopened.
- Block Rd was previously closed due to rising Hutt River levels, but has been reopened.

FORECAST: Northwest winds may approach severe gale in exposed places at times. Winds should ease from the south this afternoon and evening.

Wind gusts of this strength can cause some structural damage, including trees and powerlines, and may make driving hazardous. If any tornadoes do occur, they will only affect very localised areas.

- People are advised to keep up to date with the latest forecasts and warnings here.
- Follow Stuff for more updates.
- If you are without power, please keep an eye on your elderly neighbours and post to Neighbourly if you can lend a hand.