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Heavy rains and high seas have caused significant flooding along the east coast of New Zealand’s North Island, forcing residents to evacuate as rivers overflow and coastal areas face inundation. Emergency centres have been activated in the Hawke’s Bay and Tairawhiti regions, with authorities issuing flood warnings and evacuation notices overnight.
Emergency Response and Ongoing Risks Rising River Levels and Power Outages Rescue Operations and Future Precautions Stay Informed and Prepared Emergency Response and Ongoing Risks Local government officials in Tairawhiti Civil Defence reported on Facebook that while the intense rainfall had lessened, it was expected to continue until Friday night. Emergency crews are currently assessing damage to roads, checking river levels, and inspecting bridges. Residents are urged to remain patient as these assessments are completed.
Both Hawke’s Bay and Tairawhiti were previously hit hard by Cyclone Gabrielle in early 2023, which caused severe flooding. The current weather event has prompted a State of Emergency declaration in Wairoa and Heretaunga, with 115 evacuations reported.
Rising River Levels and Power Outages
Rivers such as the Waipaoa and Wairoa have surged past danger levels, leading to widespread flood warnings and emergency mobile alerts. Roads, including State Highway 35, are closed due to flooding and landslides. In Wairoa, power has been cut off due to water levels near local substations, and there are outages in several other areas, including Mahia, Mahuga, and Tapuaenoa.
Wairoa Mayor Craig Little reported that 90 residents from Kopu Rd and McLean St were evacuated to Wairoa’s Memorial Hall, with hundreds more self-evacuating. Approximately 1500 properties across the region are without power. A helicopter is on standby to check on inaccessible properties and individuals, with response teams ready throughout the district.
Rescue Operations and Future Precautions
Fire and Emergency New Zealand rescued two people trapped in a car surrounded by knee-deep flood water in Wairoa early this morning. Mayor Little noted that some areas received as much as 200mm of rain within 24 hours, exceeding initial forecasts. River levels are expected to rise further due to ongoing rain and water flowing in from the Hangaroa and Ruakituri rivers.
The high tide at 8:45 am posed additional challenges as large swells limited the river water from draining out, exacerbating the flooding. Mayor Little emphasized the need for a thorough investigation into why the river bar failed and acknowledged the “rain anxiety” among locals.
Stay Informed and Prepared
As the situation develops, residents are advised to stay informed through local news and official updates. The emergency services continue to work tirelessly to ensure the safety and well-being of all affected communities.
Stay safe and take all necessary precautions during this challenging time.
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