Aucklanders know a thing or two about unpredictable weather.
One minute it's blue skies and sunshine, the next you're wondering whether that garden chair is heading for the neighbour's section.
Summer can bring it all – wind, dry conditions, water restrictions and, sometimes, a serious storm. El Niño can mean windier and drier conditions, but it doesn't mean Auckland is immune from ex-tropical cyclones or significant weather events.
That's why Auckland Emergency Management is encouraging Aucklanders to use the daylight-saving weekend of 26 and 27 September to spend a little time getting storm ready.
The good news? Preparing for severe weather doesn't mean filling the garage with emergency supplies or spending a fortune on fancy equipment. A few simple actions can make a big difference when bad weather strikes.
Councillor Alf Filipaina, Chair of the Auckland Emergency Management Committee, says now is a great time for households to think about their emergency plans.
"Many Aucklanders already have a plan in place, but many don't. Taking a little time now to prepare can make things much easier if a severe weather event affects your area."
Auckland Emergency Management General Manager Adam Maggs says recent years have shown just how important it is to be prepared.
"Aucklanders are no strangers to storms, and while we all hope the next severe weather warning passes without issue, it's always better to be prepared than caught out."
Start with a simple plan
If a storm knocks out power, closes roads or interrupts phone and internet services, does everyone in your household know what to do?
A good emergency plan doesn't have to be complicated.
Think about:
- how you'll contact each other
- where you'll meet if you're separated
- where you’ll go if it’s unsafe to stay in your home
- who might need extra support\
- what you'll do if power, water or internet services are disrupted.
If your household already has a plan, now's a good time to check whether it still works for everyone.
The grab bag challenge
Here's a fun test: how quickly could you leave home if emergency services asked you to?
A grab bag is simply a collection of essential items you can grab at short notice. The best part is you probably already own most of what you need.
Think:
- sturdy shoes
- warm clothes
- a raincoat
- water and snacks
- medicines
- phone charger or power bank
- torch and batteries
- photo ID and important documents.
And don't forget babies, pets and anyone else in the household who has extra needs.
Stock up on a few key items
If severe weather keeps you at home for a few days, a handful of basic supplies can make life much more comfortable.
That means at least three litres of drinking water per person, per day - nine litres per person for three days - as well as non-perishable food, essential medications, pet food, batteries, torches and a charged power bank. It’s a lot more water than most people realise, so check your supplies now.
A battery-powered radio is also handy. It might feel a bit old-school, but when the power is out, it can quickly become the most useful gadget in the house. Or you can use the car radio if you can access it in an emergency.
Small jobs, big difference
Not all storm preparation happens indoors. Take a quick walk around your property and look for anything that could become a problem in strong winds or heavy rain.
Clear leaves from gutters and drains, trim overhanging branches where appropriate, and secure outdoor furniture, trampolines and loose items. Ten minutes spent outside today could save a lot of hassle later.
For practical advice, checklists and planning tools, visit the Auckland Emergency Management website.
Because while none of us can control the weather, we can be a little more ready for it. And that's one less thing to worry about when the clouds roll in.