Tuesday, 02 January 2024 12:17 GMT

New Zealand Capital Declares Emergency as Heavy Rain Triggers Flooding


(MENAFN) A state of emergency was declared on Monday in Wellington, New Zealand’s capital, after heavy rainfall triggered widespread flooding and landslides, according to state media reports.

At least one person has been reported missing, as stated by a broadcaster.

Meteorological authorities escalated weather alerts, upgrading warnings for further heavy rainfall in Wellington and the nearby Wairarapa region to the highest “red” level through Tuesday night.

The national weather agency MetService warned that the ongoing rain poses a serious risk to life due to dangerous river conditions, significant flooding, and landslides.

Officials urged the public to treat the situation with urgency. A representative from Wellington Civil Defence Emergency Management said people should “take this seriously, follow safety advice, and act early if they are in low-lying or flood-prone areas,” particularly those that have experienced repeated flooding in recent years.

Authorities also advised residents in vulnerable areas to relocate to safer locations for at least the next 24 hours. They further stressed that individuals should not wait for official evacuation notices if they believe they are at risk, and should move quickly if necessary.

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