06/11/2026
⛈️ We can't remember the last time there was a severe thunderstorm watch covering the entire region. But what does that actually mean, and how can you keep safe during thunderstorms?
⚡️Thunderstorms typically exist for no more than one or two hours, but can cause significant damage. They form incredibly quickly and are less predictable than other weather events. That's why we take MetService New Zealand's severe thunderstorm watches so seriously. Severe thunderstorm warnings, which are issued once a severe thunderstorm is observed on weather radar, provide information on where the storm will move in the next 60 minutes.
🏠 If you hear distant thunder or see a flash of light, get indoors immediately.
✅A sturdy building is the safest location during a severe thunderstorm.
❌Avoid gazebos, rain or picnic shelters and other isolated structures. They offer little protection from large hailstones, can be struck by lightening, and can get blown away by strong winds.
🚣 If you are boating, fishing or swimming, get to land, get off the beach, and find shelter immediately.
🚗 If you are in a car:
✅ Pull safely onto the shoulder of the road and stop, making sure you are away from any trees or other tall objects that can fall on the vehicle.
✅ Stay in the vehicle with your windows closed. You are safer from lightning in a vehicle than out in the open.
✅ Avoid contact with metal or other conducting surfaces inside and outside the vehicle to reduce your chance of being shocked.
🌳 If you are in the bush, find an area protected by a low clump of trees.
❌ Never stand beneath a single large tree in the open.
👀 Be aware of the potential for flooding in low-lying areas.
⚠️ If you cannot find any suitable shelter, as a last resort, find a low-lying, open place away from trees, poles, or metal objects. Make sure the place you pick is not subject to flooding. If you are physically able to, crouch low to the ground on the balls of your feet. Place your hands on your knees and your head between your knees. Minimize your body’s surface area and minimize your contact with the ground. Lightning currents often enter a victim through the ground rather than by a direct overhead strike.
Places and objects to avoid:
❌ Tall structures or elevated areas such as towers, tall trees or hilltops, as lightning normally strikes the tallest objects in the area.
❌ Open spaces or exposed spaces such as exposed sheds or construction sites. Move to a location beneath a solid roof and avoid openings such as windows or doors.
❌ Any electrically conductive objects such as metal fences, clothes lines and power and telephone lines.
❌ Objects in metallic contact with the ground. Machinery such as tractors are often struck by lightning, so do not seek shelter under equipment such as this.
🚨 Call 111 immediately if someone is struck by lightning.
