Police are urging people living and visiting the Bay of Plenty to keep up-to-date with Met Service reports and Civil Defence advice so that they can prepare for the incoming tropical cyclone.
The exact path and strength of the storm is still not entirely clear and more detail should be available as the day goes on, but the Bay of Plenty and Waikato regions continue to feature in the Severe Weather Watch. The regions are being told to prepare for heavy rain and strong, possibly damaging winds, with eastern coastlines particularly vulnerable and storm surges and heavy sea swells expected.
Bay of Plenty Police Prevention Manager Inspector Scott Fraser said: “We don’t want people to panic; we just want to make sure everyone stays informed and takes a few simple precautions to keep themselves safe as the storm passes through.
“One of our main concerns is the road network. We’ve been having some really dry, fine weather and a sudden deluge of heavy rain is likely to make conditions very slippery as well as reducing visibility. Coupled with severe winds, driving could become quite hazardous. Our advice is to ask yourself whether your travel plans are essential and if they aren’t, consider reviewing them.
“Our priority is public safety and doing what we can to prevent anyone being injured or even killed, in situations that could be prevented. We have the benefit of advanced warning, so it is important that we all take advantage of that.”
Outdoor enthusiasts are particularly being urged to keep a close eye on predicted conditions and make sensible decisions. Boaties, trampers, campers and hunters are particularly high risk.
“There is a possibility you could wake up in the morning to fine weather and wonder what the fuss is all about. Don’t let this lull you into a false sense of security, as it is not clear at what point we will start to see the effects or how much impact it will have on us. Check the forecasts and don’t do anything that might put your safety, or the safety or search and rescue personnel, at risk.”
Useful advice, updates and information can be found at www.metservice.com, www.civildefence.govt.nz and www.getthru.govt.nz.
Bay of Plenty Police is also providing updates via its Facebook page www.facebook.com/BOPPolice and Twitter feed @BOPPolice.
Media enquiries should be referred to Communications Manager Kim Perks on 027 234 8256.