“Severe Weather Event” predicted by MetService
7 November 2017
Met Service is warning South and Central New Zealand to prepare for a "significant weather event". Our Fire and Emergency brigades across the country are ready to respond to weather related events, to keep our communities safe.
There are simple steps we ask you to take to keep you and your home safe before and during bad weather:
- The extreme wind can increase the fire risk. Please don’t light fireworks and rethink any fire activity in windy conditions.
- Tie down or bring inside any outside furniture and BBQs – making sure the gas is turned off.
- Turn trampolines upside down to stop the wind picking them up.
- Make sure any ash from fires, rubbish fires, burn-offs or BBQs is fully extinguished, cleared and disposed of – ash can stay hot for up to five days and can be a fire risk if strong winds pick it up.
- Be ready to act and evacuate. Floods and flash floods can happen quickly. If you see rising water don't wait for an official warning to move. Heed the natural warnings and self-evacuate if you need to.
- Have your emergency evacuation kit ready to go, and keep alert for messages from Met Service and Civil Defence
- If your power is cut, be fire-safe when using candles, portable heating and cooking appliances. Turn off all electrical appliances so there is not a power surge when the power is turned back on.
- If you do need to travel, keep up to date with the latest road and weather information. Allow extra time for your journey and be prepared for challenging driving conditions.
- Remember to check your fire season status at www.checkitsalright.nz
Follow Met Service, NZTA and Civil Defence for updates on weather, safety and road closures.