Media Release 2 March 2012
Batten down the hatches says Civil Defence
The Ministry of Civil Defence and Emergency Management is advising people in the whole of the North Island - especially
the central and southern parts - to plan for severe gale force winds and heavy rain this weekend.
The Ministry is in touch with the MetService who stressed the expected severity of this event. Power outages due to wind
damage and closures of airports and ferries can be expected. Travellers are advised to check with airports or ferries
before they travel. Wind damage and wave surges are also likely to affect roads. Very heavy rain is also expected in
places.
"The event is expected to start showing its teeth by midnight tonight and will be with us until about dark on Saturday.
The only good thing about the forecasted front is that it is expected to pass through quickly. But we can expect it to
pack a punch.”
Please consider these circumstances, especially if you are planning on travelling, or have outdoor events planned, says
Civil Defence Director John Hamilton.
" Together with MetService the Ministry and Civil Defence and Emergency Management and local civil defence will be
monitoring the situation closely.
Any time a severe weather warning is issued and during an event, there are simple steps people can take to avoid injury
and property damage.
• Stay informed on weather updates. Listen to your local radio stations as civil defence authorities will be
broadcasting the most appropriate advice for your community and situation.
• Put your household emergency plan into action and check your getaway kit in case you have to leave in a hurry.
Ensure you have torches, a battery operated radio and spare batteries.
• Secure, or move indoors, all items that could get blown about and cause harm in strong winds. Includes rubbish
bins and outdoor furniture, trampolines etc
• Water supplies can be affected so it is a good idea to store drinking water in containers and fill bathtubs and
sinks with water.
• Check drains and spouting and clear any blockages.
• During a storm, close windows, external and internal doors. Pull curtains and drapes over unprotected glass
areas to prevent injury from shattered or flying glass.
• If the wind becomes destructive, stay away from doors and windows and shelter further inside the house.
• Don't walk around outside and avoid driving unless absolutely necessary.
• If you are travelling keep up with updates and drive to the conditions
• Power cuts are possible in severe weather. Unplug small appliances which may be affected by electrical power
surges. If power is lost unplug major appliances to reduce the power surge and possible damage when power is restored.
• Bring pets inside. Move stock to shelter. If you have to evacuate, take your pets with you.
• Report flooding to your local council
For more information please visit:
Weather - www.metservice.com
Transport - http://www.nzta.govt.nz/traffic/
how to get ready - www.getthru.govt.nz
ENDS