State of emergency - from TCDC

Julie Kaio Reporter from Hauraki Herald

Thames-Coromandel District Council Mayor, Sandra Goudie has declared a civil defence emergency for the district.

"There are three main reasons for declaration, the severity of the storm that is approaching, and it is potentially a category 4-5 storm with a high likelihood that Cyclone Cook will hit landfall on the Coromandel Peninsula sometime tomorrow."

"In addition as a result of the storm we have concerns for all residents and visitors on the Coromandel who are residing in low coastal areas and may need to implement evacuation, and thirdly it is holiday time and traditionally hundreds flock to the Coromandel and we must seriously advise people to stay away until at least Saturday and if people do decide to make the journey they must be prepared to be turned back, isolated and have their journeys severely disrupted."

"We are just seeing the fringes of the weather event, and we still have two more days to go," says Mayor Sandra.

Civil Defence would like to remind everyone to be prepared to potentially be isolated, without power, and you may need to make alternative arrangements if you are planning on travelling.

Now is also a good time to check your emergency survival kits and getaway kits.

Have plenty of food and water for at least three days.
Battery powered lighting is the safest and easiest and you should check all batteries every three months. Do not use candles as they can tip over in earthquake aftershocks or in a gust of wind. Do not use kerosene lamps, which require a great deal of ventilation and are not designed for indoor use.
First aid kit and essential medicines.
Blankets or sleeping bags.
Pet supplies.
If possible, make sure your mobile phones are charged.