Source: Auckland Council
Tropical cyclones have a habit of wreaking havoc on the Pacific and dumping some nasty weather on New Zealand. Weather forecasters are currently watching the path of Cyclone Fili and expect heavy rain and high winds to hit the North Island tomorrow (Wednesday 13 April).
General Manager Auckland Emergency Management Paul Amaral says Auckland Emergency Management is monitoring the progress of Cyclone Fili towards New Zealand.
“This means we’re getting regular updates from weather forecasters and checking that our teams are ready to respond if needed.
“As always, we’re reminding Aucklanders to keep up with weather forecasts and carry out any necessary pre-storm checks.
“This includes clearing gutters and drains on your property, securing loose items outdoors and – if you live in an area prone to flooding – checking your emergency plan is up to date.
“We’re expecting high winds and rain for some areas of Auckland, so remember in a storm consider your travel plans carefully, never drive through flood waters and phone 111 if your life is in danger.”
Aotea Great Barrier and Waiheke islands may get hit hardest
Cyclone-based weather patterns can be volatile, changing course often and not allowing for high degrees of accuracy on worst-affected areas.
“This makes it important for all Aucklanders to keep an eye on weather updates and make sensible decisions,” says Paul.
“Based on the latest advice from MetService, we are expecting areas to the east of Auckland’s mainland, including our Gulf islands, to be hit with the most intense rainfall and wind.
“Waiheke should expect high winds and Aotea should brace for severe gales, lots of rain, sea swells and storm surges. Charge your phones, ensure you have a torch ready and check your emergency plan,” he says.
Preparing for bad weather
- Check your drains and gutters to ensure they aren’t blocked. These can cause flooding issues during heaving rain.
- Secure outdoor furniture and items in your back yard
- Keep an eye on the weather forecast.
- Take extreme care if you are driving in heavy rain, and delay trips if possible. Do not drive through floodwaters.
- If life or property is at risk, phone 111.
- Looking out for neighbours, friends and family will also be important, especially if you live, work or travel in an area that is prone to flooding, slips or power outages
- Fallen trees, blocked drains or debris on public property can be reported to Auckland Council using our online ‘Report a Problem’ tool.
- If your property is damaged, take photographs for your insurer as early as possible
If out and about in a storm
- Always drive to the weather conditions and never drive through floodwaters.
- If you get stuck in a flood, get out of your car and move to higher ground immediately, taking great care in the floodwaters.
- Never play in or walk through floodwaters unnecessarily, you may encounter unseen objects, dangerous debris or holes.
- If driving at night, drive slowly, especially through flood-prone areas as you may encounter flooding at short notice.
- Never attempt to drive over slips and treat power lines as live at all times.
- Check on neighbours and family, especially if they are in at risk areas or might be affected by flooding or slips.
Pets and livestock
If you live on a rural property, think about your livestock rotation, especially if areas of your farms are flood-prone.
- If you have to evacuate, take your pets with you – if you can do so safely – or take them to a safe shelter place.
- If you have to leave your animals behind, make sure they’re in a secure and sheltered place either inside or outside your home.
- If you have livestock or horses in paddocks near waterways that have the potential to flood (streams, rivers etc.), move them to higher ground. Make sure your stock have access to clean feed and water in their new contained space until they can be returned to their paddocks.
If you need more detailed guidance, check the animals affected by emergencies factsheets on the Ministry for Primary Industries website.
