“There are a few simple steps to prepare to be safe over the next few days,” says Districtwide Councillor Jackie Elliott, as Kāpiti Coasters, like many others around New Zealand, watch the approach of Cyclone Gita.
After wreaking havoc in the Pacific Islands, it is currently tracking for a direct hit to the middle of the country over Tuesday and Wednesday. Our warmer ocean has enabled Gita to continue to absorb more water on it’s way here, and it will cause very heavy rain, accompanied by very strong winds, and tidal surges along our west coast.
“Unlike earthquakes, we have time to prepare,” says Cr Elliott.
“I talked to the Mayor yesterday morning, and he activated our emergency response and communications team who are coordinating to bring you updates from WREMO.
“You will see these on the KCDC website or KCDC facebook. Please share these messages. Our roading teams are checking and cleaning out any drains that may block. They may not get around the whole district so please check the one outside your house.
“Take a few simple steps today to help keep yourself, your neighbours and your property safe. Please put away or secure any garden furniture, trampolines, toys and items in your yard that may become missiles. Check and unblock your gutters, and today is a good time to refresh your emergency water supplies. Also, don’t forget the pets, secure them overnight and move cages to higher ground,” says Cr Elliott.
She says it may be too windy to put out your wheelie bins and recycling, so please consider this before leaving your bin on the pavement.
“Keep your emergency grab bag handy and make sure you have enough medications, and pet food. When you have finished, please ask your neighbours if they need a hand, and if you can’t get prepared yourself, how about asking your neighbour to help you.
“Shop and business owners it would be really helpful if you didn’t put out sign boards, flags and gale boards over Tuesday and Wednesday, and secure the lids down on your rubbish and recycling skips,” says Cr Elliott.
Remember the WREMO safety messages are on the KCDC Website and Facebook, and tune into to BeachFM and Coast radio for updates, if you experience a flooding issue please advise council staff on 0800486486, our call centre staff will be there 24hrs a day.
