Uprooted tree kills two women in car

Severe weather claimed the lives of two women in Hawkes Bay yesterday.

The two were in a vehicle hit by a tree uprooted by winds of up to 130km/h near Hastings.

The victims were Dale Frances Jowsey, 55, of Hastings, who was driving the car, and Madeline Lucy Stanley, 75, of Hawera.

Ms Stanley died at the scene and Ms Jowsey died in Hawkes Bay Hospital.

They were cousins.

Senior Sergeant Mike O'Leary said the vehicle was travelling on Maraekakaho Rd, about 5km southwest of Hastings, when the tree fell on top of it about 4.45pm.

Mr O'Leary said the tree was lifted out of the ground by the extremely strong winds, and as it struck the car the trunk of the tree snapped in half and the car rolled on to its side, trapping the women.

St John Ambulance staff had been assisted by members of the public to remove the driver from the car, said Mr O'Leary.

The Fire Service was busy and unable to respond immediately but did go to the scene.

The MetService said yesterday that westerly winds gusting to 130km/h in the southern Hawkes Bay and northern Wairarapa posed a danger to drivers.

"These gusty westerlies produce hazardous driving conditions, especially for motorcycles and trucks or caravans with a high profile," said weather ambassador Bob McDavitt.

The severe gales are forecast to continue into this evening and another burst is forecast later this week.

- STAFF REPORTER, NZPA