Just a few weeks after the devastating floods in Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city, the region was once again hit by severe storms: tropical cyclone “Gabrielle” swept across the North Island on Monday with heavy rainfall and strong winds. Meteorologists are now expecting “monstrous waves” and a “massive storm”.
Numerous flights were canceled in Auckland and other cities as a precaution. Many trains were also stopped. Most schools also remained closed. Tens of thousands of homes were without power.
„The worst is still ahead of us“
In towns like Whangarei in the Northland region and on the Coromandel Peninsula, residents are being urged to stay safe. “We still have the worst ahead of us,” said Roger Bell of New Zealand’s civil defence. In some cases, wind gusts of up to 160 kilometers per hour have already been measured, the meteorological service MetService tweeted. “Gabrielle” should also reach parts of the South Island during the day.
“We still have a few days of wild weather ahead of us,” said MetService expert Angus Hines. There have never been so many top-level severe weather warnings in such a short period of time. More flooding, power outages and road closures are expected through Tuesday.
Heavy storm just a few weeks ago
At the end of January, four people died in a catastrophic flood in Auckland. Eyewitnesses spoke of the worst flooding they had ever experienced. Parts of the airport in the metropolis with 1.6 million inhabitants were also under water.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
