Locals need to be prepared for severe weather

FILE

Bay of Plenty Civil Defence is keeping a close watch on Tropical Cyclone Pam.

Civil Defence Emergency Management regional manager Clinton Naude said the path of the cyclone was being closely monitored with MetService and the Ministry of Civil Defence Emergency Management, but it was too early to predict its passage.

"It is likely to bring large swells, wind and rain but there's a degree of uncertainty about where it is tracking," he said.

"At this stage MetService is moderately confident that there will be rain and south easterly gales in the Bay of Plenty."

A weak front should cross southern New Zealand on Friday, followed by a ridge of high pressure. A southeast flow should develop over the North Island on Saturday and strengthen on Sunday as Cyclone Pam moves out of the tropics and southeastwards.

Parts of the North Island are likely to be affected by severe weather on Monday. Winds could become severe about Auckland City, Waikato and Bay of Plenty.

"This is a good opportunity to prepare for bad weather. If you own a boat, check your moorings and secure your boat, secure trampolines, outdoor furniture and rubbish bins which could be blown about and clear your gutters.

Swells and rips are likely to be very dangerous around North Island eastern and northern beaches.

"This is the best time to check you are ready for severe weather. We will issue more information as we learn more about how the cyclone is tracking over the next few days."