The New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) is urging drivers to take extra care and be prepared for the possibility of short-notice lane closures or reduced speeds on the Auckland Harbour Bridge this evening, May 28.
Oblique wind gusts of 90-95km/h are forecast for the bridge between 8pm and 10pm tonight, triggering an amber alert.
There’s also an amber alert in place between 2pm and 7pm tomorrow, May 29, with a low risk for a red alert.
The bridge will remain in 4×4 configuration during peak traffic tomorrow.
However, under an amber alert, speed limits may be reduced and some lanes on the bridge may close.
Under a red alert, NZTA may close all lanes on the bridge.
“We don’t take the decision to lower speeds, close lanes or close the bridge lightly,” it says.
“Our priority is the safety of road users and the bridge structure.
“Drivers of high-sided vehicles and motorcyclists are advised to avoid the Auckland Harbour Bridge and use the western ring route on State Highways 16 and 18.”
For up-to-date information about any restrictions on the bridge, look out for the electronic message boards which indicate lane closures and reduced speeds.
