Key Takeaways
- The Whangārei District Council has declared a state of emergency due to severe weather conditions
- Residents are advised to take precautions and be prepared to stay at home for several days without power
- Essential supplies and emergency plans should be in place, including a grab bag and evacuation plan
- Residents are encouraged to know their neighbors, have emergency contacts sorted, and have a plan in place for the worst-case scenario
- Civil Defence Northland is monitoring the situation closely and has resources positioned around the region to respond effectively if needed
Introduction to the State of Emergency
The Whangārei District Council has declared a state of emergency due to the severe weather conditions that have already caused significant damage to the district’s east coast. The decision was made as a precautionary measure, given the forecast of further heavy rain and the potential for more areas to be impacted. Mayor Ken Couper emphasized the importance of taking the situation seriously and encouraged residents to prioritize their safety and the safety of their neighbors. The declaration of a state of emergency is a rare occurrence in the district, and residents are advised to take necessary precautions to ensure their well-being.
Impact of the Severe Weather
The severe weather has already had a significant impact on the district, particularly in areas such as akura, Whangaruru, Punaruku, and surrounding areas. The land surrounding Mōkau Marae was overrun with floodwaters, and some residents have found themselves in harrowing situations. One man reported having to hike 45 minutes to the marae after being woken by floodwaters that had risen around his cabin. The force of the river prevented him from opening his cabin door, and he had to climb out the window and into chest-high water to reach safety. The marae has been providing support to those in need, with hot showers and beds available for up to 100 people.
Preparations and Advice
Civil Defence Northland spokesman Zachary Woods advised residents to be prepared to stay at home for some time, even without power. He recommended having a grab bag full of essentials ready to go and staying up to date on the latest weather and road closure information. Residents are also encouraged to know their neighbors, have emergency contacts sorted, and have a plan in place for the worst-case scenario. Additionally, residents are advised to clear drains and gutters, secure any loose outdoor items, move valuables and vehicles away from flood-prone areas, and relocate stock from low-lying land and bring pets indoors.
Response and Support
Civil Defence Northland is monitoring the situation closely with MetService and the Northland Regional Council hydrology team. Resources are being positioned around the region to respond effectively if needed. Northpower has used a helicopter to assess the damage to its network and plan repairs, and several crews are on standby due to the heavy rain forecast. The Whangārei District Council has asked residents not to put any recycling out for kerbside collection on Wednesday and Thursday due to the weather. Civil Defence Minister Mark Mitchell and Shona Morgan, senior regional advisor for the National Emergency Management Agency, visited Whangārei to see the impact of the weather and provide support.
Conclusion and Next Steps
The declaration of a state of emergency in the Whangārei District is a serious measure that residents should take seriously. The situation is being closely monitored, and residents are advised to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety and the safety of their neighbors. By being prepared and having essential supplies and emergency plans in place, residents can help minimize the impact of the severe weather. It is essential to stay informed and follow the advice of authorities to ensure a safe and effective response to the situation. As the situation continues to unfold, residents are encouraged to prioritize their safety and the safety of those around them, and to seek help if needed.
