New Zealand hunkers down as major storm batters country
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Storm
Wellington, April 13, 2017 (dpa/NAN) New Zealand’s biggest city Auckland, escaped serious damage on Thursday, as a major storm moved further east than expected as other areas braced for widespread flooding, landslides and wind damage.
“MetService has lifted the wind warning for Auckland,” New Zealand’s meteorological service said in a statement.
The remnants of Cyclone Cook made landfall in the north-eastern Bay of Plenty region at around 7 p.m, where residents in low-lying areas had been advised to evacuate.
Hundreds of homes were without power, as wind gusts of 150 km per hour damaged landlines and uprooted trees.
Residents were told to stay away from beaches, as large waves of 5 metres or more were possible.
The storm was expected to track across the North Island overnight and to hit the South Island on Friday.
“People should be aware that this is a very significant event.
“It is likely to produce widespread flooding, slips and wind damage, including to power lines and may even lift roofs and bring down large trees,” MetService said.
More than 130 schools and universities across the North Island were closed on Thursday, and domestic flights at various airports around the country were disrupted.
Air carrier Air New Zealand suspended operations in several North Island airports, citing weather conditions.
This is the second storm to batter New Zealand in as many weeks.
The remnants of Cyclone Debbie brought historic amounts of rain across much of the country. (dpa/NAN)
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Edited by Celine-Damilola Oyewole/Abdullahi Yusuf