4.48pm, 16 April 2014

MetService issues severe weather warning

Auckland Civil Defence reminds Aucklanders to stay up-to-date with weather forecasts in the lead up to Easter as severe weather is expected across the region.

MetService expects the Auckland region to be hit by severe weather between 5am and 3pm tomorrow with strong winds and heavy rainfall. Exposed eastern locations could see wind gusts in excess of 110km/h. Surface flooding and slips may also make driving difficult.

Auckland Civil Defence is monitoring the weather situation and advises people to keep up to date with severe weather warnings and forecasts from MetService.

Before the severe weather hits you should:
• It is a good time to check your emergency survival kit and update your household emergency plans.
• Make sure your battery-powered torches and radios are working and check the expiry dates on all food in your emergency survival kit
• Check your drains and spouting to make sure they are clear of blockages.
• Pick up debris around your house that could become airborne.
• Bring pets inside.
• Check on your next door neighbours.

If the severe weather hits we would recommend:
• People stay at home, stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary.
• Power and phone services may be disrupted. We recommend you have a torch and a battery-powered radio so you can listen to weather alerts. You also may want to have a gas cooker ready.

On the road drivers are urged to exercise caution:
• Headlights on.
• Drive to the conditions.
• Keep a safe distance from the car in front.

For more information:
To keep updated, follow Auckland Civil Defence and Emergency Management onFacebook and Twitter @AucklandCDEM.

If you have a smartphone, please download the Auckland Civil Defence app to receive instant updates. Go to www.aucklandcivildefence.org.nz/Alerting/Get-the-Applications.

Visit www.getthru.govt.nz for detailed information on what to do, before, during and after a storm.

ENDS

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