Cyclone Gita to Make Landfall in North of South Island Late on Tuesday, 20 February
Category: Natural Disasters
Severity: 3 (Moderate)
Source: Drum Cussac
02/19/2018 (New Zealand) - According to local media reports on Monday, 19 February, Cyclone Gita is set to reach the northern tip of South Island by late evening on Tuesday, 20 February. The storm (which a few days ago was forecast to lose strength as it approached the country) continues its path across the South Pacific as a category II cyclone and is likely to bring heavy rain and winds of up to 150 km/h (93 mp/h). A Watch for heavy rain is in force for Horowhenua, Kapiti Coast and Wellington, and the South Island as far south as North Otago. A Watch for severe gales has been issued for parts of the central and lower North Island, as well as the upper South Island, Westland and Canterbury High Country. These watches are likely to be upgraded to Severe Weather Warnings in the near future. Unconfirmed reports suggest that the government is considering imposing a pre-emptive state of emergency. The cyclone has previously caused extensive damage in both Tonga and Fiji.
Clients in affected areas are advised to monitor local media sources for weather-related updates and to remain apprised of disruption and warnings in their particular area of operations. Travellers should familiarise themselves with local emergency protocols and heed any directives issued by local authorities, including evacuation orders. Drivers should exercise a heightened degree of caution in flood-affected areas due to likely hazardous conditions caused by flooding, landslides and debris.
Copyright © 2024 Drum Cussac
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