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January 29, 2023
Media release: Emergency Mobile Alert issued for possible localised downpours in Auckland overnight
Waatea Team
Posted On January 29, 2023
Media release: Emergency Mobile Alert issued for possible localised downpours in Auckland overnight
For immediate release 29 January 2023
Emergency Mobile Alert issued for possible localised downpours in Auckland overnight
Auckland Emergency Management has tonight issued an Emergency Mobile Alert (EMA) to provide important safety messages ahead of the potential for extremely heavy rain to hit the Auckland region.
MetService has issued an orange heavy rain warning due to an active line of thunderstorms currently sitting over the Hauraki Gulf. Between now and 7am tomorrow (Monday), this line of thunderstorms could produce localised downpours of 50-90mm of rainfall. The possibility of localised extreme downpours up to 150mm cannot be ruled out, with the larger totals likely north of the Auckland Harbour Bridge.
Auckland Emergency Management Controller Mace Ward says, “Given recent rainfall, the ground is extremely saturated which changes how rainfall can affect the environment. The decision to issue this alert was made so people in the region can make the best decisions of how to remain safe, should this heavy rain eventuate.”
People in the area between Ōrewa/Waiwera and down to Papakura/Drury, from coast to coast including Aotea Great Barrier Island are advised to:
Make sure you stay informed. Watch the forecast at www.metservice.com/warnings
Avoid unnecessary travel. Check road conditions if you do have to travel
Floods and flash floods can happen quickly. Act immediately if you see rising water – do not wait for official warnings. Head for higher ground and stay away from flood water
Check www.aem.org.nz for updates and information. Listen to emergency services and self-evacuate if you feel unsafe
If life is in danger, call 111 immediately
Any further updates will be posted to the Auckland Emergency Management social media channels.
EMAs are delivered to phones within reach of selected cell tower locations. Given the location of this system, most of the population of Auckland will have received this EMA, though some people outside the warning area may also receive the EMA. More information on how EMAs work, including troubleshooting, is available on the Get Ready website.
ENDS
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