A state of emergency has been declared for Wellington’s Southern and Eastern Wards, with waves of 8-9 metres expected today.
A mandatory evacuation order is in place from 9am Tuesday for waterfront properties in Ōwhiro Bay, Island Bay, Houghton Bay and Breaker Bay.
The Science Media Centre asked experts to comment. Feel free to use these comments in your reporting or follow up with the contact details provided.
Dr Lauren Vinnell, Senior Lecturer of Emergency Management, Joint Centre for Disaster Research, Massey University, comments:
“Heavy swells like this have caused damage and posed a risk to life before, so it’s really important that everyone in Wellington takes today’s event seriously. Anyone who hasn’t evacuated from the mandated area should do so immediately.
“If you can, take what you need for at least overnight. If you can’t stay with friends or family, there is an Emergency Assistance Centre at Wellington South Baptist Church, 284 The Parade.
“For those in Wellington away from the coast, do not go and sightsee. The ocean can be fun to watch when it’s wild, but you might be putting yourself at risk and blocking the roads for people who need to evacuate or emergency services who need to get in.
“Keep up to date with any changes that might occur during the day on the WREMO, Wellington City Council, and Metservice websites or social media, tune in to RNZ, or reach out (digitally) to anyone you know in the area to make sure they’ve got the message.”
Conflict of interest statement: “No real or perceived conflicts of interest to declare.”
Dr Sally Potter, social scientist and warnings consultant, Director of Canary Innovation Ltd., comments:
“Today’s Heavy Swell Warning means that very large waves are expected in areas along the south coast of Wellington, as well as in Wairarapa.
“Heavy swells can create many hazards – in addition to flooding low lying properties and flinging debris around, they can be life threatening. People can be knocked over, swept into the sea, hit by debris, or trapped by rising water. There can also be significant erosion, damaging roads and infrastructure, and undermining structures.
“This can weaken the protective structures so that during the following high tide, properties may be more vulnerable. There are also gale southwesterly winds forecast for the south coast this morning, which adds to the potential impacts from the very large waves.
“Residents along the south coast have been given information on how to keep themselves safe, including staying away from the beaches, moving important items out of harm’s way, and evacuating before the waves reach their peak.
“It sounds like the situation will be easing by tonight – I hope everyone in the affected areas can stay safe, dry, and warm in the meantime.”
Conflict of interest statement: “No conflict of interest.”