Media advisory No 2
3.45 pm, 6 December 2012

Tornado event and severe weather at Whenuapai, Hobsonville and other parts of Auckland

The tornado and torrential rain throughout parts of Auckland around lunchtime today resulted in the following:

Police have confirmed three people are dead and seven have been transferred to hospital. Those affected were believed to be involved in the construction of a school at Hobsonville Point and/or were hit by a tree.

About 150 homes have been displaced at Whenuapai and many have been deemed uninhabitable or are without power. 250 residents affected have been taken to Whenuapai Air Force Base where they will be looked after, and Auckland Council welfare staff have also gone to assist.

Civil Defence is liaising with Whenuapai Airbase and will provide support as required.

Electricity is off in numerous parts of Auckland including Henderson, Greenhithe, Hobsonville, Riverhead, Meadowbank and St Johns. Vector is the contact point for more information.

There is widespread surface flooding on roads and motorways throughout Auckland and motorists are urged to take care or stay off the roads if possible.

Auckland Council building inspectors are attending the worst affected areas.

Public transport: Trains are operating as normal. Ferry services are continuing but the 5.30pm service to West Harbour is to be replaced by a bus.
Bus services are disrupted to Herald Island route 093 and Hobsonville Point routes 092 and 093. Route 130 is suspended. Some other bus services may be delayed.

For transport updates: www.AT.co.nz
Information is updated at http://www.aucklandcivildefence.org.nz/Emergency-Status/

Ends

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