Auckland (NZ Punjabi News)
Authorities have declared a local state of emergency in parts of Wellington as the capital braces for dangerous swells expected to batter the coastline, with some waves forecast to reach more than 10 metres.
Emergency officials have issued a mandatory evacuation order for residents living in vulnerable waterfront properties in Ōwhiro Bay, Island Bay, Houghton Bay and Breaker Bay from 9am on Tuesday. Lyall Bay is not included in the evacuation area.
The state of emergency covers Wellington’s southern and eastern wards, with authorities warning that the powerful swells could pose a serious risk to homes, roads and coastal infrastructure.
MetService has issued heavy swell warnings for coastal areas stretching from Cape Terawhiti to Turakirae Head and from Turakirae Head to Mataikona in Wairarapa.
Forecasters say combined waves are expected to build to between 9.5 and 10.5 metres late on Tuesday morning, accompanied by long wave periods of 13 to 15 seconds. Conditions are expected to gradually ease from midday on Wednesday.
Residents in affected areas have been urged to avoid the coastline and follow instructions from emergency services.
The severe marine conditions have also disrupted travel across Cook Strait. Interislander and Bluebridge have cancelled ferry sailings ahead of the expected swells, with passengers advised to check directly with operators for updates.
Authorities are warning that even people outside evacuation zones should stay away from beaches, rocky shorelines and coastal walkways, as large waves and surges can arrive suddenly and sweep people into the sea.
Emergency management teams are continuing to monitor conditions closely and have urged Wellington residents to stay updated through official channels as the dangerous weather system moves through the region.
