Another storm in northern New Zealand

AFP

Damage to a road near Auckland

NOS News•today, 10:40•Edited today, 10:43

The north of New Zealand is preparing for the second time in a short time for heavy rain and gale-force winds. This time they are the foothills of Hurricane Gabrielle, which passes 250 kilometers off the coast of the North Island. “Be prepared, stay indoors if you can and have a plan if you have to move,” warns Prime Minister Hipkins.

Auckland is also located on the North Island. 1.4 million people live in and around this city. A state of emergency has been declared due to the storm. Train traffic and most of the air traffic are at a standstill. More than ten thousand international travelers have to rebook their flight. Schools and libraries will remain closed today and possibly tomorrow.

North of Auckland, 220 millimeters of rain has already fallen. Roads are closed and tens of thousands of people are without power and often without a telephone connection.

Two weeks ago, the wettest day on record was recorded in Auckland and the area to the north. One day just as much rain fell as usual in a summer. This was accompanied by flooding. Four people died.

“Extreme weather follows extreme weather,” Prime Minister Hipkins said. “I know this is extremely exhausting for everyone and I recognize that many are having a very hard time.”

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