Heavy Swell Warning for Auckland West Coast

Thursday September 16, 2010

Media Release
For immediate release

Heavy swell warning for Auckland West Coast

The Auckland Region Emergency Management Office reminds Aucklanders to stay up-to-date with weather forecasts over the next 72 hours.

MetService have advised of heavy ocean swells off the Western Coasts of both islands, with the coast from Taranaki northwards likely to be struck by particularly rough seas. It is expected that this weather pattern will create heavy swells of up to 6-7m on the West Coast between Friday evening and Saturday morning.

Harry O’Rourke, Group Controller for the Auckland Region Civil Defence Emergency Management Group, advises people to stay away from the beaches during this period of bad weather. The Auckland Region Emergency Management Office and Local Council Emergency Management Offices throughout the region are monitoring the weather situation.

The Harbourmaster advises the Manukau Bar will be closed to shipping when the swell exceeds 4 metres. The size of the swells forecasted are likely to create confused and dangerous sea conditions at harbour entrances, off coastal cliff areas, and in areas of shallow water. These conditions can extend considerable distances offshore, and the wave patterns can be very unpredictable.

All boaties should assess whether their voyage should be delayed or cancelled.

For more information about being prepared visit www.getthru.govt.nz.

Listen to your radio for civil defence updates or for any further weather warnings.

For more information please visit: www.metservice.co.nz www.aucklandcivildefence.org.nz

ENDS