September 30, 2009 (10:33am)

Media Release (For Immediate Release)

Tsunami Sirens Activated

Tsunami warning sirens around Waitakere City have been activated as a precaution.

Sirens on both the West Coast (around Piha, Karekare and Huia) and the East Coast (around Herald Island and Te Atatu) are sounding an “alert” signal, following the threat of a Tsunami from the Pacific reaching New Zealand.

Waitakere City’s Emergency Management (Civil Defence) spokesman Bill Morley says the signal does not, at this stage, mean people have to evacuate.

“This is a first-level alert, which means people are advised to stay off beaches and away from low lying areas.”

Local surf club members, Civil Defence staff and other volunteers are helping clear beaches.

People are advised to keep away from the following until cancellation of the warning:
• Low-lying areas / roads / bridges
• Beaches
• Estuaries
• Marinas and harbours due to fast-running currents

People also need to:
• Turn on their radios and listen to advice from Civil Defence

At this stage homes do not need to be evacuated however detailed advice will come from local authorities and emergency services in the area. People should act on it promptly. “If told to evacuate they should, where possible, take a radio and cellphone with them and check for updates,” says Mr Morley.

ENDS

© Scoop Media