New Zealand: State of emergency in Christchurch due to Cyclone Gita /update 2

Event

Severe weather brought by Tropical Cyclone Gita on Tuesday, February 20, prompted Air New Zealand to cancel all flights in and out of Wellington International Airport (WLG), Hokitika Airport (HKK), Nelson Airport (NSN), New Plymouth Airport (NPL), and Queenstown Airport (ZQN) until midnight (local time). Flights operated by other airlines also faced major disruptions at these airports. Further flight delays and cancelations are expected to affect travelers through February 21.

A state of emergency has been declared for Christchurch as well as two other districts on South Island due to damage caused by the storm and dozens of schools have been closed.

As of noon on February 20, severe weather warnings were in effect in Wellington, Kapiti Coast, Canterbury, North Otago, Taranaki, Taihape, Whanganui, Manawatu, Horowhenua, Westland, Tararua, Nelson, and Buller. According to weather officials, Tropical Cyclone Gita has already brought up to 20 cm (7.8 in) of rain and winds of up to 150 km/h (95 mph). Further rain and windy conditions are expected to continue through Wednesday morning, potentially provoking flash flooding, tree damage, and power outages. Up-to-date information can be found on the Meteorological Service of New Zealand's website.

Context

Gita brought severe flooding and associated damages to Samoa and American Samoa before striking Tonga and Fiji February 13-14, where widespread damage (houses flattened, crops destroyed) was reported. Samoa declared a state of emergency and US President Donald Trump signed an emergency declaration for American Samoa on February 11.

Cyclone season in the region typically lasts from November to April but storms can occur outside this period.

Advice

Individuals present in New Zealand are advised to confirm travel reservations, monitor local weather reports, and follow all instructions as issued by local authorities (e.g. evacuation orders).

Remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult - and that floodwater may contain wastewater or chemical products; all items having come into contact with the water should be disinfected and all foodstuffs discarded.