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When severe wind hits the Auckland Harbour Bridge, we can lower speeds or close lanes to keep drivers and the bridge safe.
High winds can buffet vehicles and make the crossing dangerous during severe weather events. In 2020, severe gusts pushed a truck into the central overarch, causing critical damage and widespread disruption. Lower speeds and lane closures help us avoid a similar incident happening again.
The most dangerous winds are crosswinds, or perpendicular to the bridge. If crosswinds gust to 75 km/h, we close alternate lanes to give vehicles more space to cross safely. If winds reach 90 km/h, a full closure is needed because it’s no longer safe. The threshold is higher for oblique or parallel winds because they’re not as dangerous.
We close the bridge for short periods during bad weather to ensure its long-term function. Every day, about 170,000 vehicles use the bridge and it’s an important route for freight.
Remember to keep a lookout for the electronic message boards and our social media channels to help plan your journey when it’s windy out there.