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Following a warning issued this morning, Auckland Council is also ringing alarm bells about a bad storm on the horizon.
Adam Maggs from Auckland Emergency Management (AEM) confirms Aucklanders need to start preparing for Cyclone Vaianu, which is tracking towards New Zealand.
“Our teams are activated and preparing to provide support. This cyclone system poses a significant risk to Aotearoa New Zealand, including the Auckland region. It is essential that we all prepare now – preparation and making a plan saves lives.”
Importantly, Aucklanders need to keep track of the storm’s progress, Maggs adds.
“Remember, keep up to date with the latest MetService forecast and all current watches or warnings by downloading the MetService app from the App Store or Google Play, or visit the MetService website.”
AEM has issued the following advice:
Be prepared
- Check drains and gutters to ensure they aren’t blocked and clear tree branches, leaves and debris. These can cause flooding issues during heavy rain
- Put away or tie down any loose outdoor furniture and trampolines in case of high winds
- Pack a grab bag with essentials including medication, warm clothes, chargers, snacks and water
- Make a plan with whānau and friends about what to do and where to go if it becomes unsafe to stay at home
- As strong winds can cause power outages, make sure to have a torch and batteries, charge phones and power banks. A battery-operated radio is ideal – remember, your car radio can serve this purpose
- If travel is needed, plan carefully, drive to the conditions and never drive through floodwaters or over slips
- As the forecast predicts large swells and high-energy waves, conditions are far from ideal for boating or fishing
- Postpone recreational activities at parks and beaches until after the weekend
- Stay up to date with weather forecasts and check AT and NZTA’s journey planners for any public transport and roading disruption
- Visit aucklandemergencymanagement.govt.nz or getready.govt.nz for more advice
Who to call
- For tree damage on public land, report a problem online via aucklandcouncil.govt.nz
- To report stormwater issues and flooding, call the council on 09 301 0101
- If people or property are in danger, phone 111 – natural warnings such as rising floodwaters need to be acted on immediately
