Get ready for severe weather event

Photo, Auckland Emergency Management

Our autumn sunshine disappears for a few days as a subtropical low brings heavy rain and high winds to the Coast over the next few days. After the recent dry weather, be sure to clear drains and gutters and clear the decks of any furniture or objects ahead of high winds that are forecast to start rising from this afternoon.

The Hibiscus Coast gets hit hard by easterlies and nor-easterlies, and this is expected to hit gale force in exposed places during Thursday, so be prepared for power outages from falling trees. Ensure phones and torches are charged and spare water is available.

The rainfall is expected to become heavy overnight and continue into Thursday so take care around streams and rivers and look out for surface flooding and slips. If conditions worsen, stay home and avoid unnecessary trips. Be cautious on the road, which may be slippery after the recent dry spell.

If you need to evacuate, the Hibiscus Coast has a number of community emergency hubs, detail of your nearest one is available at https://www.communityready.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/en/find-hibiscus-bays-community-readiness-group.html