Source: Northland Regional Council
Date: Thursday 26 March Update number: 02 @ 1640 hrs
UPDATE 02; MARCH WEATHER EVENT
An update on the weather situation as of 1640hrs today (Thursday 26 March).
Severe weather continues to affect our region, with Red and Orange Heavy Rain Warnings and a Strong Wind Warning still in place across the region. If you are home, and safe, we encourage you to stay put, be prepared and continue to follow updates.
Here’s what people need to know as we head into the evening:
Flooding and river conditions River levels are high across the region, with some still rising. Further rainfall may cause flooding, slips, landslides, hazardous driving conditions and road closures.
Roads, travel and welfare Please avoid travel where possible. If people must travel, they should drive to the conditions and expect delays and changing conditions.
There are several State Highway and local road closures, with more possible. Crews will respond as quickly as conditions allow. Check NZTA for most up to date information Highway conditions for Northland | NZTA Journey Planner
Due to road closures, some Far North, Kaipara and coastal communities are currently cut off. If you can’t get home, stay with friends or whānau if possible. If that’s not an option, information about welfare centres or marae will be shared via district council channels. If you need welfare support, please ring your local district council.
MORE
Whangarei District Council | Phone: 0800 932 463 | Website: www.wdc.govt.nz
Far North District Council | Phone: 0800 920 029 | Website: www.fndc.govt.nz
Kaipara District Council | Phone: 0800 727 059 | Website: www.kaipara.govt.nz
Power outages There are multiple power outages across the region. Crews are working to restore supply, but this may take time, so you should prepare for extended outages and check:
– Northpower: https://northpower.nz/outages/
– Top Energy NZ: https://outages.topenergy.co.nz/
State of emergency A state of emergency has been declared by both Far North District Council and Whangārei District Council for an initial period of seven days. This is a precautionary measure that gives them emergency powers so they can act quickly – e.g. if they need to close roads, undertake evacuations etc.
What you can do now – Avoid floodwaters and unstable ground – Be ready to self-evacuate if water rises or you feel unsafe – Move vehicles and valuables away from flood-prone areas – Bring pets inside and move stock from low-lying paddocks – Have essential supplies, a grab bag and an evacuation plan ready – If it’s safe, check on neighbours, older people and those who may need support
If you or your whānau are in immediate danger, call 111.
This is a fast-changing situation. We’ll continue to provide updates as information comes in. Please keep following this page, MetService, and your local and regional councils. Weather warnings: https://www.metservice.com/warnings/home#upper-north
