MetService has upgraded Wellington’s wind warning to a rare red level, with destructive 140km/h gales and a threat to life from flying items and falling trees.

“Destructive winds will cause widespread damage including powerlines and roofs, with dangerous driving conditions and significant disruption to transport and power supply.”

The warning was issued at 10am and will last for 13 hours until 3am tomorrow.

“Stay indoors or seek sturdy shelter away from trees. Avoid travel. Be ready for power and communication outages.”

MetService said the wind would peak this afternoon, especially about the south coast and exposed hilltops before easing this evening.

Meanwhile Emergency Management Minister Mark Mitchell is heading to Canterbury to assess widespread flooding from torrential downpours.

A local State of Emergency has been declared for the Selwyn District.

Follow the latest updates from the wild weather in our blog below.