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

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