Canterbury Emergency Management is warning residents and visitors to prepare for severe wind as MetService issues a Red Wind warning for the region from tonight through to Sunday afternoon.

Forecasters say north to northwest gales are expected to be unusually strong in inland Canterbury, including areas that are normally exposed to high winds.

Gusts could reach 130 to 150 kilometres per hour in exposed places.

MetService said winds of this strength could damage powerlines and roofs, create dangerous driving conditions, and cause significant disruption to transport and power supply.

Canterbury Group Controller Phill Mackay urged people to take the threat seriously.

“While wind warnings are not new to us in here in Canterbury, this event is different. Please take this warning seriously and prepare now,” he said.

Authorities are advising residents to:

• Charge devices and prepare for possible power outages

• Secure outdoor items and check properties for anything that could become airborne

• Avoid unnecessary travel from 10pm tonight, and if on the road, drive to the conditions

• Stay informed via radio, council Facebook pages and the Canterbury CDEM page

Fire and Emergency New Zealand is also asking people to check any old burn piles to ensure they are fully extinguished, warning that smouldering embers could reignite in the strong winds.

Mackay said people should consider how the winds might impact them and their property.

“We’ll be monitoring this situation closely. If at any time you, your family and your property are at risk, immediately contact emergency services on 111,” he said.