New Zealand declared a national emergency for only the third time in its history on Tuesday as Cyclone Gabriel caused massive flooding, landslides and huge sea swells, forcing evacuations and stranding people on roof tops.
Prime Minister Chris Hipkins said, “It’s been a big night for New Zealanders across the country, but especially in the upper North Island … Lots of families displaced, lots of homes without power, widespread damage ” reporters after the announcement.
Gabriel is near the east coast of the country’s North Island, 100 km (60 mi) east of Auckland and is expected to move east-southeast, roughly parallel to the coast.
Emergency Management Minister Kieran McAnulty said New Zealand was now living through the worst of the storm, and more rain and strong winds were expected.