Cyclone Cook is heading to New Zealand and is expected to be the worst storm to hit since 1968.
Civil Defence has some handy tips for dealing with the storm.
When you need to get out:
Civil Defence recommends you act quickly if you see rising water. Before the storm, you should find out where the closest high ground is and how to get there. If your home or business is at risk from flooding, it may pay to move somewhere on higher ground as the water rises.
If you have a disability or need support, make contact with your support network. Where possible, move pets inside or to a safe place.
Food and water:
On their hazard management page, Civil Defence recommends you collect enough food and water for at least seven days in the face of disaster. This includes dried or canned food (remember to have a working can opener!) and bottled drinking water. Civil Defence recommends three litres per person per day.
If power and water supplies are cut off, it's important to have equipment you might need to prepare food, such as a portable gas stove, extra water, matches or lighter.
In case of flooding, bugs from the ground surface can contaminate foods. Civil Defence recommends you wash cooking utensils in hot soapy water if they get covered by floodwater.
If food items are exposed to floodwater, destroy all unpackaged and non-waterproof covered ones.
Civil Defence recommends: "IF IN DOUBT, THROW IT OUT!"
They also advise you know where and how to switch off your power, water and/or gas.
Travel:
If you are planning to travel for the Easter holidays, they recommend you consider delaying your travel for a few days as the weather should improve from Saturday onwards. Keep up to date with the latest road and weather information on the NZTA website.
Drive carefully if you have to travel and expect delays!
Follow the instructions of Civil Defence and emergency services. For local updates follow the Bay of Plenty Civil Defence Facebook page at www.facebook.com/bopcivildefence or visit the Bay of Plenty Civil Defence website at www.bopcivildefence.govt.nz
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