2604 days ago

MEDIA RELEASE: Gita is coming – time to get prepared

The Team from Wellington Water

Wellington Water is urging people to get prepared ahead of Cyclone Gita’s arrival in New Zealand. Potential pathways for the cyclone could see heavy rain and wind pummelling the Wellington region from Monday, and Wellington Water plans to activate its emergency operations centre from 6am Monday morning to monitor the situation.

“Right now we’re checking known trouble spots such as culvert and drain intakes that can get blocked, and organising standby crews in place for Monday,” said Gary O’Meara, general manager of Network and Customer Operations for Wellington Water.

“It’s also important for people to do what they can as well.

“Check and clear your gutters and drains, and have a look at the street drain nearest your house. Clear any litter or leaf debris. A blockage here can end up creating a major problem.

“Surface water will take the lowest pathway on its way to the sea. If you have a low point on your property, is it vulnerable to flooding or overloaded house guttering? Take some time on the weekend to prepare for a deluge; that could mean investing in a few sandbags or perhaps lifting boxes off the garage floor.”

Mr O’Meara also suggests people think about a contingency plan, including possible working from home in case of school closures.

“Back in November 2016, just after the Kaikoura earthquake, heavy rain closed both State highways, highway 58 and the rail network. At the same time, we had schools closing and parents trying to pick up children, along with service crews trying to help out. It was mayhem.

“It may not happen, and that would be great, but it doesn’t hurt to be prepared. Keep an eye on forecasts on Sunday and through the week and plan ahead.”

“Mr O’Meara had one final message. “Please, stay out of flood water. There’s a risk of manhole lids coming loose and we’d hate for anyone to be injured.”

Updates on Gita’s progress are at www.metservice.com...

Image: Cyclone Gita outlook (Source: MetService)

Image
More messages from your neighbours
2 days ago

Poll: Is your nearest emergency department up to scratch?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

Concerns have been raised about Nelson Hospital with complaints of lack of staffing and excessive wait times. Do you have confidence in your local emergency department?

Image
Is your nearest emergency department up to scratch?
  • 35.8% Yes, it serves us well
    35.8% Complete
  • 63.3% No, I have concerns
    63.3% Complete
  • 0.8% Other - I'll share below
    0.8% Complete
1064 votes
11 hours ago

The perfect Mother's Day gift is here!🌸

Mags4Gifts

Looking for a thoughtful gift for Mum? Give her something she'll enjoy all year round with a magazine subscription!

Whether she’s passionate about gardening, inspired by beautiful homes, or loves to keep up with the latest entertainment, you’ll find the perfect match at
Mags4Gifts.co.nz.

This Mother's Day, save up to 35% on subscriptions – perfect for Mum, Grandma, a special mother figure, or even as a treat for yourself!

Don't miss out – shop now and make her day unforgettable!
Learn More

Image
11 hours ago

Create Your Own Mini Glasshouse

The Team from Resene ColorShop Upper Hutt

Create a mini glasshouse environment finished in Resene Waterborne Woodsman Pitch Black to extend your growing season – perfect for early spring planting, hardening off seedlings and making the most of small growing spaces. Find out how to create your own with these easy step by step instructions.

Image