Severe winds have cut power to a number of towns across Canterbury, while emergency crews were also dealing with a number of fires.

Alpine Energy said affected areas include; Milford, Orari, Orton, Rangitata Island, Temuka, Winchester, Glenavy, Morven, Studholme, Willowbridge, Claremont, Fairview, Arno, Gum Tree Flat, Waikakahi, Albury, Cannington, Cave, Hazelburn, Hunter Hills, Kakahu, Maungati, Taiko and Totara Valley.

The company said it was”“committed to restoring your power as quickly and as safely as possible.

“We apologise for any inconvenience.

It was also urging the public to treat all wires as LIVE, as normal power supply could be restored at any time.

Meanwhile, Orion said power was cut to Allandale, Governors Bay, Rapaki, Teddington, Glenroy, Hororata, Lake Coleridge, Rakaia Gorge, Terrace Downs, Windwhistle.

Mid-South Fire and Emergency crews were also working in overdrive.

“Our brigades are currently attending multiple incidents across the Mid South Canterbury District, including continuing to patrol the fire at Lake Pukaki.”

Timaru District council has closed Centennial Park and the Timaru Botanical Gardens for safety reasons.

“Because of the wind a few trees are no longer upright.

The team is currently undertaking an inspection and clean up, and vehicle access will be assessed tomorrow morning.”

Due to strong winds, State Highway 80 is currently closed. Road users are advised to plan ahead and consider delaying their journey.