Wellington, New Zealand
CNN
—
Around 58,000 homes are without power in New Zealand’s upper North Island on Monday as the approach of Cyclone Gabrielle brings strong winds, heavy rain and huge swells to Auckland and nearby regions.
Gabrielle swept past the Australian territory of Norfolk Island in the Tasman Sea on Saturday night, although its most destructive winds missed the island.
It is now sitting just north of New Zealand, with weather forecasters expecting rain and winds to intensify as it nears land during Monday and Tuesday.
“The impact of Gabrielle is still in its early stages and further serious and severe weather is still expected for Tamaki Makaurau (Auckland), later today into Tuesday morning,” said Rachel Kelleher, Deputy Controller Auckland Emergency Management on Monday.
“Now is not the time for complacency,” she added.
Many…
2023-02-12 20:58:46
Post from www.cnn.com
Auckland is preparing for Cyclone Gabrielle, a category one cyclone expected to bring strong winds and heavy rain to urban centres in New Zealand.
The cyclone is currently off the coast of East Cape, and is forecast to move slowly northeast over the next few days before making landfall in Northland on Sunday morning. The cyclone is expected to pass just to the east of Auckland later in the day.
MetService meteorologist Matthew Thomas says Auckland can expect heavy rain and winds between 90 and 110 kilometres per hour. “Auckland should expect flooding, especially in low-lying areas, and people should bring any outdoor furniture and items indoors to prevent property damage.”
Thomas says the cyclone is forecast to move away from Auckland after making landfall, however people should remain prepared, as the cyclone can change direction without warning.
The New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) is ready to provide emergency aid if the cyclone causes a lot of damage. Major General Tim Gall, NZDF’s Commander Joint Forces New Zealand, says, “We have teams standing by ready to deploy anywhere in the country if needed.”
The cyclone is expected to bring a wide range of weather conditions and locals have been warned to stay indoors and monitor the situation over the coming days.
Auckland and the surrounding areas are now bracing for the arrival of Cyclone Gabrielle, with strong winds and heavy rain expected to bring disruption and damage to impacted areas. People are encouraged to keep an eye on weather updates, and the NZDF is ready to provide aid if needed.