Home » Huge Storm Hits New Zealand South Island… States of Emergency Declared

Huge Storm Hits New Zealand South Island… States of Emergency Declared

A major storm hit New Zealand’s South Island last night, causing massive flooding and resulting in three states of emergency being declared – in Christchurch, Timaru and Otago. According to reports, Dunedin (with a population of 120,000) is only accessible by air after roads were blocked by landslips. It’s a similar case with smaller communities […]

By SAPeople
22-07-17 15:13
in Eish!

A major storm hit New Zealand’s South Island last night, causing massive flooding and resulting in three states of emergency being declared – in Christchurch, Timaru and Otago.

According to reports, Dunedin (with a population of 120,000) is only accessible by air after roads were blocked by landslips. It’s a similar case with smaller communities along the coast.

The storm’s ferocity was described by weather experts as a “once in 500-year flood”.

https://twitter.com/Finnsmemes/status/888570098142683137

The national army has been deployed to assist and farm animals were relocated as rivers were rising. Power has been cut in many homes.

According to local authorities, the floodwater may take a while to recede as there is currently a “very strong king tide”.

The country’s Prime Minister Bill English tweeted: “My thoughts are with those affected by the weather events in the South Island. Please follow official advice and take care of each other.”

The Metservice reported a rainfall of 220mm just north of Dunedin, with up to 50mm more expected.