Forecasting weather is a tricky one. Luckily we have Chris Brandelino from NIWA updating New Zealand on what to expect as of this morning:
https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/101550169/preparing-for-cyclone-gita
So now's the time to prepare:
Before a flood or storm
* Find out from your local council, neighbours, etc, if your property is at risk from flooding and plan accordingly
* Check your insurance cover details
* Fill vehicles’ tanks
* Have a smartphone you can charge in the car
* Store bailage/hay in areas not prone to flooding
* Ensure trees posing a hazard are trimmed (over houses, sheds, boundary fences)
* Store anything that is likely to be blown around, or tie down bigger items like trampolines
* Have a plan and trigger points to make decisions without waiting for official advice.
* Move animals, equipment and feed to higher ground.
* If you have a generator, make sure it’s accessible and ready to go.
*Clear drains and gutters
*Clear debris from waterways
* Have a household emergency kit including food, water, clothing, first aid, torch, cash, and a battery-powered radio
During a flood or storm
* The safety of you, your family, and your workers comes first.
* Listen to your local radio stations for official updates.
* Ensure stock have safety, shelter and water, and can't wander. Are electric fences working?
* Unplug small appliances to avoid damage from power surges. Turn off utilities if told to do so by authorities to help prevent damage.
* Do not attempt to drive or walk through floodwaters unless it is absolutely essential.
* Treat all lines as live. Check power and phones and report outages.
* Check dogs, poultry and pets.
* Check on neighbours - do they need help or can they help you?
* Check buildings at risk, secure feed stacks.
* Use generators if necessary to keep pumps, refrigeration, electric fences and household appliances running. Flood pumps may need attention.
Useful sites and numbers:
* Civil Defence website https://www.civildefence.govt.nz/
* Your local Rural Support Trust to update your information or ask for help 0800 RURAL HELP (0800 787 254) www.rural-support.org.nz
* Your local council website and facebook page
*Animal welfare https://www.mpi.govt.nz/protection-and-response/animal-welfare/animals-in-emergencies/