Reports are coming in of a strong Willie Willie or “Dust Devil” in the South Auckland suburb of Papakura this afternoon.

Willie willie’s, often seen on dusty farms as a see-through twister, are caused by hot air and cold air mixing.  On a day like today, with mostly clear skies and very little wind, we have the perfect conditions for them.

The extra dry conditions around Auckland at present add to the heating.

This afternoon’s willie willie was strong enough to lift roofing iron on one building according to a phone call to NewstalkZB which is incredibly rare for something of this nature.

It is believed to be an isolated event.