Key Takeaways:
- Severe weather is expected to hit the Gisborne region, with heavy rain and strong winds predicted
- Residents are advised to be vigilant and prepare for potential flooding, slips, and power outages
- A red heavy rain warning has been issued for the north of Tolaga Bay, and an orange warning for the south of Gisborne
- Residents in low-lying areas are advised to evacuate immediately, with a welfare centre available at Tolaga Bay Area School
- The council has closed several rural roads to heavy vehicles as a precautionary measure
Introduction to the Severe Weather Warning
The Gisborne region is bracing itself for severe weather, with heavy rain and strong winds expected to hit the area. Mayor Rehette Stoltz has urged residents to "be vigilant" and "prepare" for the worst, with the weather expected to worsen this evening. The Metservice has updated its heavy rain warning to red for the north of Tolaga Bay and orange for the south of Gisborne, indicating a high risk of flooding, slips, and power outages.
Weather Forecast and Warnings
The Metservice has predicted 250-350mm of rain for the north of Tolaga Bay, with peak rates of 25-40mm/h in downpours. The south of Tolaga Bay is expected to receive 100-150mm of rain, with peak rates of 10-20mm/h. The warnings will stay in place until 11am Thursday for the north of the region and until 10am for the south. A wave warning has also been issued from Mahanga to Cape Runaway, with a northeast swell rising to between 3.5m and 4m.
Preparations and Evacuations
Residents in low-lying areas, including Mangatuna, Paroa, Mangaheia, Wharekaka, and Kaiaua, have been advised to evacuate immediately. A welfare centre has been set up at Tolaga Bay Area School for those who need it. The council has also closed several rural roads to heavy vehicles as a precautionary measure, including Armstrong Rd, Hokoroa Rd, and Mangatū Rd. Residents are advised to prepare their homes, including unblocking blocked drains or culverts, and to ensure they have enough stored water and food in case of power outages or isolation.
Council Response and Precautions
The council, Tairāwhiti CDEM, and partner agencies are taking precautionary steps to prepare for the severe weather. This includes moving resources, communicating with people in coastal communities, and pre-checking the city’s stormwater and wastewater system. Teams are also checking reserves and key routes across the local roading network. The council has advised residents to drive to the conditions and to keep an eye out for slips, washouts, and soft shoulders. If damage is seen, residents are asked to report it to the council.
Community Support and Emergency Management
Mayor Rehette Stoltz has spoken to Minister for Emergency Management and Recovery Mark Mitchell, who has reassured her that he has the region’s back. The council is working closely with emergency services and partner agencies to ensure a coordinated response to the severe weather. Residents are advised to look after their own whānau and to reach out to their neighbors to ensure everyone is aware of what is going on. The council is also urging residents to be vigilant and to prepare for the worst, with the weather expected to worsen this evening.
Conclusion and Final Preparations
In conclusion, the Gisborne region is bracing itself for severe weather, with heavy rain and strong winds expected to hit the area. Residents are advised to be vigilant and to prepare for potential flooding, slips, and power outages. The council and emergency services are taking precautionary steps to prepare for the severe weather, and residents are urged to do the same. By working together, the community can ensure a safe and coordinated response to the severe weather. Residents are advised to stay informed, follow the instructions of emergency services, and to look after themselves and their loved ones.
