New Zealand: Tropical Cyclone Oma forming near the island February 13

Event

As of Wednesday, February 13, Tropical Cyclone Oma is developping north of New Zealand. According to the Fiji Met Service, Oma is slowly tracking over Vanuatu and New Caledonia as a Category 2 storm and is expected to linger over ten days north of New Zealand. Current forecasts for the next ten days show Oma getting stronger at sea before possibly drifting west to Queensland (Australia). As such rainfall and strong winds, along with potential related transportation disruptions are likely in the coming days across New Zealand.

Context

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 monitor local weather reports, prepare for flooding and transportation disruptions, 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.