Floods are one of New Zealand's most frequent hazards. Flood waters can ravage the land, destroying roads, bridges, railway tracks and buildings. Crops can be inundated and livestock drowned. Human lives are also at risk, particularly in flash floods and tsunami, where fast-flowing water filled with debris can sweep people away.
WHAT IS A FLOOD?
Floods can occur as a result of storms and heavy rain which cause rivers to overflow their banks. Fast-flowing, deep water filled with debris can sweep away people, animals and even cars. Coastal areas can occasionally be subject to floods from the sea caused by unusually high tides or tsunami. After a flood there can be a lot of damage and pollution to clean up. It may take months or years to recover.
Before
- Find out about the worst flood in your area and how high the flood waters reached. Would it reach your home?
- Know how to reach the nearest high ground.
- Move animals to safety.
- Keep valuables and some food and water above the high water mark. Attics or upstairs rooms are good places for storage, as long as there is easy access.
- Remind your family to store chemicals in a high, safe place. If a flood occurs and these chemicals leak, they could be dangerous.
During
- Listen to your local radio station for information and instructions on what to do.
- Help move household items as high above the floor as possible.
- You may have to move out of the flooded area or go to the nearest high ground.
- Don’t go into flood waters alone and don’t go sightseeing.
- Take your essential emergency survival items with you if you have to leave your home.
- Remind adults to turn off water, electricity and gas.
After
- Only return home once you are told it is safe.
- Do not go sightseeing through flooded areas.
- Do not drink floodwater. It could be contaminated.