Preparations underway in anticipation of Tropical Cyclone Gabrielle
10 February 2023, 5:00pm
Metservice has updated their wind watches with much of the central North Island now under watch for strong wind. Waikato and Waitomo, across to Bay of Plenty and Gisborne, including Taupo and Taihape are now under a watch for strong winds from Monday morning until noon Tuesday.
See the forecast HERE.
10 February 2023, 2:30pm
Tropical Cyclone Gabrielle is expected to affect parts of the North Island from Sunday 12 February.
While there are currently no weather warnings or watches in place for Rotorua, Bay of Plenty Emergency Management have said it is anticipated that as the track of the cyclone becomes clearer, warnings will be issued for the Bay of Plenty.
Rotorua Lakes Council’s DCE Environmental & Infrastructure Solutions, Stavros Michael, says council is preparing regardless and encourages residents to do the same.
“Our three waters and transport staff and contractors are monitoring the developing forecasts and making the usual preparations ahead of potentially significant weather events.
“This includes checking critical stormwater inlets to make sure they are clear, ensuring wastewater treatment storage ponds are as empty as possible and plant systems (including back-up provisions) are operating.
“Our Civil Defence and Emergency Management team are keeping watch on the situation and are ready to respond if needed.
“People should remain alert to the weather forecast and can keep an eye on Council’s website and social media channels for updates,” says Mr Michael.
During heavy rain and/or strong winds people are advised to avoid driving if possible due to increased hazards on the roads such as flooding, slips, debris and fallen trees.
Due to recent heavy and consistent rainfall, another weather event is likely to result in slips due to the already saturated ground. If we do experience severe weather and travel is required, drivers should take extra care on roads.
Residents who live near waterways should be vigilant about water levels and be prepared to evacuate if the need should arise. Council will be available to assist with evacuation if needed.
Swimming should be avoided for at least 48 hours after heavy rain to avoid illnesses caused by contamination from rural and urban run-off into waterways.
Council staff and contractors endeavour to check as much as they can prior to weather events and we welcome information from the public alerting us to anything that may cause issues. Jobs can be lodged by phoning Council’s 24/7 Customer Centre on 07 348 4199.
If Rotorua is impacted by Cyclone Gabrielle, council contractors and staff will work hard to respond to issues and will prioritise jobs in terms of risk to public safety.
We'll keep you posted, but in the meantime it doesn't hurt to be prepared. Here are some tips to help prepare for a possible weather event:
- Keep an eye on the weather forecast (visit Metservice and BOP Civil Defence for info)
- Clear gutters and drains around the house
- Ensure outdoor furniture is secure in case of severe winds
- Check your insurance is up to date
- Plan ahead for any trips
- Have an emergency preparedness plan and ensure everyone in your household is aware of what to do in an emergency.
Bay of Plenty Emergency Management have also provided the following advice about staying safe during the cyclone:
- Close windows, external and internal doors. Pull curtains and drapes over unprotected glass areas to prevent injury from shattered or flying glass.
- Avoid driving unless absolutely necessary. Surface flooding, restricted visibility and slips are possible during severe weather.
- Avoid recreational activities on or near the water, as storm conditions can cause turbulent and unsafe waters, and coastal inundation is expected.
- Unplug small appliances that may be affected by electrical power surges, as power cuts are possible in severe weather. If power is lost, unplug major appliances to reduce the power surge and possible damage when power is restored.