Shelter in place as Cyclone Vaianu intensifies; SH35 closing at Ōpōtiki
Bay of Plenty Civil Defence says the worst conditions are expected from 2pm, with strong winds, airborne debris, and coastal and localised flooding.
An Emergency Mobile Alert sent by the Bay of Plenty Civil Defence Emergency Management Group says Sub-Tropical Cyclone Vaianu is intensifying over Tauranga and surrounding areas, with the most significant impacts expected from 2pm today.
People are being asked to avoid non-essential travel and to shelter in place if it’s safe to do so. The alert warns of an ongoing threat to life from strong winds that could generate airborne debris, as well as further coastal and localised flooding.
Authorities are urging people to stay away from beaches, cliffs and sand dunes, and to avoid swimming or surfing. Drivers are told not to enter floodwaters. State Highway 35 is closing at Ōpōtiki (Ōtara Bridge).
The alert advises residents to follow forecasts and not wait for further official warnings. If your life is in danger, call 111 immediately.
Updates are being posted at whakatane.govt.nz and on the Bay of Plenty Civil Defence Facebook page at facebook.com/BOPCivilDefence.
This article was originally written by AI. You can view the original source here.