Media release: Prepare for Cyclone Gabrielle
MEDIA RELEASE
13 February 2023 1300hrs
Nelson Tasman - Get ready for wind as ex-Cyclone Gabrielle moves south
Nelson Tasman residents are asked to get ready for strong winds this evening and into tomorrow as ex-cyclone Gabrielle travels south.
Nelson Mayor Nick Smith encouraged people to prepare.
“We’ve seen how damaging the Cyclone has been in the North Island, and we need everyone to take steps now. The Metservice have issued an Orange warning for the Southeast winds, which are expected to gust up to 120km/h. Powerlines may be affected by falling trees or branches.
“While we are not expecting heavy rain, the strong winds can be damaging, so extreme care should be taken especially in our parks and recreation areas”.
Tasman Mayor Tim King reiterated the need to be ready and safe.
“Our Emergency Management team are monitoring the event, and are on standby if required.
“People should consider staying off the roads, especially high-sided vehicles and motorbikes. Large swells are also likely, and boaties are recommended to check their moorings and stay off the water until the winds die down on Wednesday morning.”
Are you ready?
• Keep up to date with MetService weather forecasts.
• Be prepared for possible power outages and check emergency supplies. Make sure you have some cash at home or food and water to last three days, and a battery-powered radio to stay informed.
• Identify a safe place during the storm. This should be a place where there are no windows, skylights, or glass doors. These could break in strong winds and cause damage or injury.
• Work out what supplies you might need and make a plan. Have materials and tools ready to repair windows, such as tarpaulins, boards and duct tape.
• Bring inside or tie down anything that strong winds could break or pick up. If you have a trampoline, turn it upside down to minimise the surface area exposed to wind.
• Bring pets indoors. They can get unsettled by storms and it is more comforting and safer for them to be with you.
• Farmers and lifestyle block owners need to consider how and where you will relocate stock to protect from winds.
• Check on your neighbours and anyone who might need your help.
• Put safety first. Don’t take any chances.
• In an emergency, call 111.
Go to https://getready.govt.nz/en/emergency/storms/ for more tips on how to prepare.
During the storm
Stay inside. Don't walk around outside. Don't drive unless you really need to. Close exterior and interior doors and windows. Pull curtains and blinds over windows. This could prevent injury from flying glass if the window breaks.
Stay informed during an emergency. Listen to the radio and follow Nelson Tasman Civil Defence, Tasman District Council or Nelson City Council Facebook pages. Download the Antenno app from Google Play or the App Store to receive updates on your phone.
More information:
www.metservice.com/
www.facebook.com/nelsontasmancivildefenceandemergencymanagement
www.facebook.com/nelsoncitycouncil/
www.facebook.com/TasmanDistrictCouncil
getready.govt.nz/en/emergency/storms/
ENDS
Media Contact:
Contact: Paul Shattock, Nelson Tasman Group Public Information Manager
Email: em.pim@ncc.govt.nz;
Phone: 027 703 0409