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Storms

Storms can happen any time of the year. A storm can bring strong winds, heavy rain or snow, thunder, lightning and tornadoes. Coastal areas are also likely to see heavy swells, coastal inundation and storm surges.

Heavy rain from storms can see stream and river levels rise, leading to dangerous, fast-flowing currents which can cause flooding and destroy bridges. Heavy rain can also cause landslides. Storms with strong winds can fell trees and poles, tear off roofs from buildings, and cause flying objects.

Storms can make driving dangerous. They can also cause road damage, power supply disruption and damage to buildings. As a result, storms can isolate communities and cut off communications and power supply.

You can stay up-to-date with the latest weather information from MetService New Zealand and look out for weather watches and warnings which are also available on the MetService mobile app.

Find out what to do before, during and after a storm.

If you live in a storm-prone area, regularly inspect and trim trees and shrubbery. Strong winds frequently break weak tree limbs and hurl them at great speed, causing damage to buildings or injury when they hit.

  • Make trees more wind-resistant by removing diseased or damaged limbs, and strategically remove branches so that wind can blow through.
  • Green waste and tree removal services may be unavailable just before a storm arrives, so it is best to do this regularly rather than leave it until severe weather is forecast.

Get your roof checked regularly to make sure it is secure.

  • Make sure all materials are securely fixed down, and all nails and other fastenings are in place.
  • Clear away leaves and other debris from spouting and drains to prevent blockage and flooding or water damage.

Additional measures to consider:

  • Strengthen garage doors. Garage doors are often damaged or destroyed by flying debris, allowing strong winds to enter.
  • Install permanent shutters to cover windows. Shutters can be closed quickly and provide the safest protection for windows.
  • Install lightning rods on your whare/home and on sizeable sheds or any other buildings that house animals. Lightning rods will carry the electrical charge of lightning strikes safely to the ground, greatly reducing the chance of a lightning-induced fire.

Review your insurance regularly.

Having insurance cover for your home and contents is important to help you get back on your feet if you suffer damage in a disaster.

Be aware that storms can trigger floods and landslides. Make sure you know how to respond.

✔️ Make and practise your emergency plan

✔️ Have your grab bag and emergency supplies ready

✔️ Know how to stay informed

Prepare your property for high winds and heavy rain

  • Secure items like trampolines, outdoor furniture, wheelie bins, boats and trailers. Bring items inside or tie items down that could move in strong winds.
  • Clear debris and leaves from drains and gutters to help prevent surface flooding.
  • Make a list of items to bring inside or tie down when strong winds are forecast. A list will help you remember anything that strong winds can break or pick up.

Be prepared for possible power outages

Identify a safe location in your whare/home for household members to gather during a thunderstorm

  • This should be a place away from windows, skylights, or glass doors, which can be broken by strong winds or hail and cause damage or injury.
  • Keep materials at hand for repairing windows, such as tarpaulins, boards and duct tape.

Look after your pets and protect your lifestock

  • Bring pets indoors. They can get unsettled by storms and it is more comforting and safer for them to be with you.
  • If you have livestock, know which paddocks are safe to move livestock away from floodwaters, landslides and power lines.

Keep up to date with any Severe Weather Warnings and Watches issued

You can stay up-to-date with the latest weather information from MetService New Zealand and look out for weather watches and warnings which are also available on the MetService mobile app.

When a storm is forecast

  • Bring inside or tie down anything that strong winds could break or pick up. If you have a trampoline, turn it upside down to minimise the surface area exposed to wind.
  • Remove any debris or loose items from around your property. Branches and firewood can become missiles in strong winds.
  • Bring pets indoors. They can get unsettled by storms and it is more comforting and safer for them to be with you.
  • Check on your neighbours and anyone who might need your help.

During a storm

  • Stay inside. Don't walk around outside. Don't drive unless absolutely necessary.
  • Close exterior and interior doors and windows. Pull curtains and blinds over windows. This could prevent injury from flying glass if the window breaks.
  • Stay informed during an emergency. Follow any guidelines or instructions from Civil Defence and emergency services.
  • Avoid bathtubs, water taps, and sinks. Metal pipes and plumbing can conduct electricity if struck by lightning. Use your water from your emergency supplies.
  • Unplug small appliances that may be affected by electrical power surges. If you lose power, unplug major appliances. This will reduce the power surge and possible damage when power is restored.

Continue to follow any guidelines or instructions from Civil Defence and emergency services.

  • Check for injuries and get first aid if necessary.
  • Help others if you can, especially people who may need extra help.
  • Contact your local council if your house or building has been severely damaged. Ask your council for advice on how to clean up debris safely.
  • Stay alert for extended rainfall, flooding, landslides and debris hazards, especially when driving.

If your property is damaged:

  • Do not do anything that puts your safety at risk or causes more damage to your property.
  • Contact your insurance company as soon as possible.
  • If you rent your property, contact your landlord and your contents insurance company.
  • Take photos of any damage. It will help speed up assessments of your claims.

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