New Zealand ordered hundreds of people to evacuate coastal homes in Wellington after giant waves up to 11 meters high struck the shore amid strong winds, affecting travel and forcing flight cancellations. The severe weather conditions disrupted normal activities across the area.
The large waves hit Wellington Harbour on Tuesday, 9 June local time. New Zealand's meteorological agency reported the wave height reached up to 11 meters.
Andrew Little, Wellington's mayor, declared a state of emergency before the giant waves reached the shore. He ordered evacuations of residents in high-risk areas along the southern coast, including Owhiro Bay, Island Bay, Houghton Bay, and Breaker Bay. He warned that emergency responders might not be able to assist those who disobey evacuation orders and remain in dangerous zones.
The evacuation order took effect on Tuesday morning. Police were deployed to control the area and set up roadblocks around the coast to prevent people from approaching the shoreline.
The local council noted that a similar event occurred in 2021, causing damage to several homes in Breaker Bay. At that time, the waves were about 6.5 meters high.
In addition to the high waves, Wellington experienced strong gusty winds. Reports from Island Bay indicated winds strong enough to knock over two women as waves surged onto the streets.
Wellington Airport was also affected, with some flights canceled due to winds reaching speeds up to 128 kilometers per hour.
Meanwhile, a small aircraft belonging to the local Golden Bay Air was tipped over by strong winds while parked at the airport, though no passengers were on board. Firefighters intervened to secure the plane to the ground.
Authorities continue to warn the public to avoid coastal areas due to ongoing severe weather and dangerous high waves.
.source :channelnewsasia
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