Dispatch Desk

Emergency / Weather

Red severe thunderstorm warning for Waikato; Civil Defence urges people in low-lying areas to be ready to evacuate

The Emergency Mobile Alert says heavy rain could cause rapidly rising water and slips, with people told not to wait for an official evacuation order.

Source: NZ Emergency Management
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Red severe thunderstorm warning for Waikato; Civil Defence urges people in low-lying areas to be ready to evacuate
Map of the area the EMA was sent to / Supplied

An Emergency Mobile Alert has been sent across Waikato after MetService issued a red severe thunderstorm warning this evening.

Civil Defence says heavy rain could cause water in rivers, streams and on roads to rise quickly. People in low-lying or flood‑prone areas are being told to take extra precautions now and be prepared to evacuate at short notice.

The alert stresses that if you see rising floodwater, sinking ground, small slips, or trees or buildings beginning to tilt, you should evacuate immediately and not wait for an official warning. If you need to leave, seek shelter with friends or family if you can, and take pets and essential items.

Key instructions from Civil Defence:

  • Do not drive or walk through floodwater.
  • Stay off the roads and avoid all non‑essential travel.
  • Call 111 if your life or property is at risk.
  • Be aware emergency services could be delayed.

Further updates and advice are available at waikatocivildefence.govt.nz. The alert was issued by Waikato Civil Defence Emergency Management at 8.10pm on 27 February 2026.

This article was originally written by AI. You can view the original source here.