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A year after Cyclone Gabrielle and the Auckland Anniversary weekend floods, Auckland Council is warning residents and businesses that their properties may be vulnerable to flooding, even if it hasn’t happened before.
The changing climate is bringing more extreme weather events in Auckland, and this year’s strong El Niño weather pattern is expected to bring more variable rainfall over the summer than previous El Niño seasons, including the likelihood of intense rainfall and, possibly, severe storms, it says.
Healthy Waters head of planning Nick Vigar says it’s essential that people are prepared for the possibility of floods, and understand their flood risks.
Aucklanders can use council’s online Flood Viewer (find it at http://bit.ly/41wfVud) to see on an interactive map whether an overland flow path – the natural course that water takes across the land – runs through a particular property.
If an overland flow path does run through a property, it should be kept clear so water can flow freely.
Private drains and waterways should also be kept free from debris, to enable water to flow unimpeded.
In addition to overland flow paths, the map helps to identify flood plains (areas predicted to be covered by flood water during heavy rain), flood prone areas (low-lying areas where water can collect during heavy rain, especially if stormwater outlets are blocked or reach capacity) and coastal inundation areas (areas predicted to be covered by sea water during large storms).
Flood Viewer users can also click on the “Get Prepared” link to see a series of videos and guides on what to do before, during and after a storm.
These include how to make an emergency plan, preparing a home for the possibility of flooding, staying safe during a flood, and steps to protect homes or businesses from flooding. It also lays out responsibilities for those with a stream or creek on or near their property.
“We see people using our Flood Viewer not just to understand their home’s flood risk, but also to make informed decisions when looking at somewhere new to buy or rent,” Vigar says. “Council has made increasing community resilience to floods a priority, and part of this is giving people the tools to make smart decisions to prepare themselves and their homes.”
Council says it pays to be prepared, and residents should regularly clear gutters and check and unblock drains on their property.
“Summer storms can be a surprise to many people due to the speed they happen and their unexpected nature,” Auckland Emergency Management general manager Paul Amaral says, adding that they can be dangerous, even if short-lived.
“This is due to rain intensity and the potential for strong winds and tornadoes that sometimes accompany them. A little bit of planning in advance and maintenance around your home can help mitigate their effects.”
