Auckland and Northland are being hammered by severe weather this Easter, making being on the roads during a holiday long weekend even more challenging. Driving in a storm with heavy rain, high winds, and lightning can be dangerous, so you are always best to put off any car trips when the weather is as bad as it is right now. But if you simply can't avoid it then it's smart to prepare thoroughly.
Here's a checklist to help you stay safe.
📱 Stay Informed
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Weather updates: Use a weather app or radio to get real-time storm alerts.
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Road closures: Check your local transportation agency for flood-prone roads or closed routes.
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Share your plans: Let someone know your travel route and estimated arrival time.
📦 Pack Smart
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Bring waterproof clothing and shoes.
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Keep important items in waterproof bags or containers.
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Have extra charging cords and backup power sources for devices.
🧠 Plan Ahead
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Avoid flood zones: Know where rivers, low-lying areas, or poor drainage spots are.
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Alternate routes: Plan a backup route in case of road closures or flooding.
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Leave early: Give yourself extra time to avoid rushing.
🌧️ Heavy Rain Tips
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Slow Down: Wet roads = longer stopping distances + risk of hydroplaning.
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Headlights on: Make yourself visible!
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Avoid cruise control: You need full control in case you hydroplane.
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Stay in the centre lane: Water pools more on outer lanes.
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Wipers and demister on: Keep your windscreen clear.
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Watch for standing water: Don't drive through large puddles, they could stall your engine or hide deep holes.
🌬️ High Wind Tips
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Both hands on the wheel: Stay ready for sudden gusts, especially if you're passing or being passed by big vehicles.
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Watch for debris: Tree limbs, rubbish, signs - you name it - can come flying.
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Avoid bridges and open areas: Winds are stronger and more dangerous there.
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Leave an even bigger gap: Leave extra space in case the car ahead swerves or brakes suddenly.
⚡ Lightning Tips
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Stay inside your car: Your car is actually pretty safe from lightning because the metal frame directs the electricity around you (this doesn’t apply to convertibles or soft-tops).
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Avoid touching metal: Try not to touch anything metal while lightning is active.
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Pull over if needed: If visibility is too bad, it’s okay to safely pull over until the worst passes.
⚠️ Know When to Delay
If the forecast worsens or authorities advise against travel, postpone your trip if at all possible. Safety first.
🚫 When to NOT Drive
If conditions are extreme (especially with flash flooding or severe storm warnings), don’t drive unless it’s an emergency. It's better to wait it out than risk it.