Aucklanders urged to update emergency plans this summer

Aucklanders are urged not to forget their household emergency response plans as they enjoy the festive season.

Auckland Emergency Management’s general manager, Adam Maggs, said in a statement that a few quick actions now could make a big difference in an emergency.

“Summer is cyclone season in the tropics, and down here in Aotearoa, we often catch the tail end of a cyclone or messy weather system that still has enough intensity to cause damage and disruption,” Maggs said.

“Heat and humidity can also be accompanied by rain and windy conditions."

In 2023, Auckland experienced one of its worst flooding events after New Year's, during the Auckland Anniversary weekend on January 27.

Cyclone Gabrielle caused more damage in February of the same year.

Maggs said updating household emergency plans wouldn't hurt as people put the finishing touches on their holiday plans.

“In amongst that final dash towards the end of the year, or preparing for Christmas or making holiday plans, it’s important not to forget your household emergency response plan.

“Summer weather can pack a punch, with sudden downpours and gusty winds causing surface flooding, blockages and general disruption."

The Auckland Anniversary floods caused severe damage in the region. Photo/Stuff/Lawrence Smith

He said setting aside time to check the gutters and drains on one's property and check or top up emergency kits would make a big difference if an emergency occurred.

“If you’re heading away, do a quick sweep of your property and make sure loose items like garden furniture are tied down, covered or stored away.

“With many people travelling or hosting visitors, it’s a good time to check your wider emergency plans too – what might you do if you need to leave your home due to flooding, manage during a power outage or shelter in place for a few days?"

People were urged to stay updated with the weather by regularly checking MetService – Te Ratonga Tirorangi.

Maggs said severe summer weather could surprise many people due to its speed of change and unpredictable nature.

While weather events may pass quickly, they bring intense downpours of rain, strong winds and, sometimes, tornadoes, he said.

“On the flip side, our friends at Fire and Emergency New Zealand are reminding people to watch out for hot, dry conditions too.

"Being fire wise includes checking before you light outdoor fires – it only takes one spark to set off a devastating wildfire.”

He said Auckland Emergency Management was ready to work with response agencies and community groups during emergencies.

“2024 has been a busy year for us.

“Over the holiday break, we’ll have a team on standby watching the weather forecasts, keeping in touch with our partner agencies, and ready to scale up if needed."

LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.

Adam Maggs says it wouldn't hurt to update household emergency plans. Photo/supplied