Status: 01/28/2023 10:14 AM
After heavy rains, large parts of the New Zealand city of Auckland were flooded. At least three people were killed. Hundreds of travelers are stuck at the airport, concerts are canceled and highways are closed.
According to the authorities, three people died as a result of heavy rains and floods in New Zealand’s largest city. Auckland police said at least one person was missing.
New Zealand Prime Minister Chris Hepkins called on local residents to stay at home. He warned that any relief in the weather could be short-lived. More heavy rains are expected. He had previously declared a state of emergency in the region.
More than 150 liters of water per square meter
According to the Bureau of Meteorology, Friday was the wettest day on record in Auckland. Accordingly, a large amount of rain fell in the city in 24 hours as is usually the case during the whole summer. Within three hours of Friday evening, more than 150 liters per square meter had fallen in some places.
Weather service MetService warned of flash flooding and dangerous traffic conditions across the city. Traffic authorities closed an important highway. Highways were also closed, and hundreds of people were stranded overnight at Auckland Airport. Parts of the airport terminal were flooded and all flights were grounded.
There is an emergency in Auckland due to flooding. This New Zealand town home was pushed into a car by floodwaters.
Photo: AP
As announced by Auckland Airport on Twitter, stranded people can be taken home or to other accommodation in the morning. Due to flooding in the baggage hall, passengers may not be able to retrieve their checked baggage at this time.
Air New Zealand said it had resumed domestic flights to and from Auckland. It is not clear when there will be international flights again.
Because of the storm, Elton John’s concert was canceled shortly before its scheduled start. A second appearance by the British pop star scheduled for the evening was also cancelled.
