Wild weather is expected across much of the country as Cyclone Pam tracks close to New Zealand.
Severe weather warnings are in place across the country as the extra tropical cyclone approaches New Zealand. The cyclone comes fresh from Vanuatu where it has wreaked havoc, damaging homes and infrastructure. Early reports from Vanuatu suggest that dozens of people may have been killed by the cyclone.
Regarding the situation and outlook for New Zealand, the latest update from the MetService blog reports:
“The effect of Cyclone Pam is being felt over New Zealand with wind gusts of 130-140 km/h observed in Northland last evening, and heavy rain has fallen in Gisborne with 100-150mm accumulated in some areas since 5pm yesterday.”
“Extremely strong wind gusts, heavy rain and phenomenal waves are expected over parts of the country”
Live updates are available from:
Radio New Zealand: LIVE coverage – Cyclone Pam
Stuff.co.nz: Cyclone Pam live blog
NZ Herald News: Cyclone Pam: Live updates
New Zealand Media coverage includes:
Stuff.co.nz: Cyclone Pam hits New Zealand
Hawkes Bay Today: Cyclone Pam: Coastline set to be ‘walloped’
Otago Daily Times: Pam moves closer to NZ
Cyclone Pam: What you need to know
Radio New Zealand: Gisborne coast in Pam’s path