New Zealand: Severe weather warning issued for North Island March 8

Event

The MetService issued a severe weather warning for the North Island from Friday, March 8, until 09:00 (local time) on Saturday, March 9. According to recent forecasts, Gisborne and Bay of Plenty east of Whakatane are expected to receive the most rain. Accumulative rain totals are expected to be up to 16 cm (6 in) in some areas. Heavy rain hit Wellington on Friday morning from 06:00 through 11:00, causing minor flooding in parts of the city and in metro stations. No transportation disruptions were reported, but officials warned that the rain may cause hazardous driving conditions.

Advice

Individuals in affected areas are advised to keep abreast of weather alerts, prepare for transportation disruptions (e.g. delays and cancelations) and adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities. In the event of flooding, remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult - and that floodwater may contain wastewater or chemical products; all items having come into contact with the water should be disinfected and all foodstuffs discarded.