12 September 2013

Significant rainfall expected from midday today

Auckland Civil Defence reminds Aucklanders to stay up-to-date with weather forecasts over the next 8 hours as heavy rain is expected across the Auckland region.

MetService expects the Auckland region to be hit by heavy rain between noon and 6pm with rainfall rates possibly reaching 35 mm/hour in localised areas and wind gusts up to 90 km/hour.

Aucklanders are advised to exercise caution due to a possibility of surface flooding and rapidly rising rivers and streams.

Surface flooding and slips may also make driving difficult.

The Auckland Civil Defence Emergency Coordination Centre is monitoring the weather situation and working with the emergency services.

Auckland Civil Defence advises people to take the following simple precautions to minimise the impact of this weather.

At home:

· Check drains and spouting and clear any blockages.

· Ensure a torch and spare batteries are to hand.

· Stay up to date with weather forecasts on TV, radio and the internet.

· Secure any loose objects around your property.

On the road drivers are urged to exercise caution:

· Headlights on.

· Drive to the conditions.

· Keep a safe distance from the car in front.

· Be ready to slow down or stop, if driving.

If you live in low-lying areas prone to flooding, you should have a getaway kit ready in case you need to move to higher ground. If you have stock in low-lying areas move to higher ground.

A Getaway Kit should have:

· Battery powered torch and radio.

· Torch and radio with spare batteries;

· Important documents (identification such as birth and marriage certificates, driver’s licences and passports); financial information (insurance policies, mortgage information);

· Hearing aids, glasses, mobility aids for elderly or vulnerable members of your household.

· Supplies for pets.

For more information:

· Listen to your radio for civil defence information or any information relating to severe weather.

· Check the Yellow Pages for more information.

Receive emergency warnings on your smartphone
Auckland Civil Defence has launched free smartphone applications which deliver alerts to better prepare you for a natural disaster. To download the applications visit http://www.aucklandcivildefence.org.nz/Alerting/Get-the-Applications/

Or visit:
www.metservice.co.nz
www.aucklandcivildefence.org.nz

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