Hazards

Due to its location and environment, New Zealand faces many potential disasters and Waimate is no different. In some cases, such as a weather related disaster, there may be time for a warning. But an earthquake or a tsunami close to land could strike without warning.

All disasters have the potential to cause disruption, damage property and take lives. So what are our hazards and how do we prepare for them?

Earthquakes	If the earthquake is long and strong ... get gone! If you are at the coast and: ° feel a strong earthquake that makes it hard to stand up or a weak rolling earthquake that lasts a minute or more, ° see a sudden rise or fall in the sea level, ° hear loud and unusual noises from the sea, move immediately to the nearest high ground, or as far inland as you can. Don't wait for an official evacuation order! During an earthquake and if you are inside your home or building drop to the ground, go under a table and hold. If you can't get under a table or something similar, protect yourself by putting your hands on your head (see image below).
Floods	Floods are the main hazard in the Waimate district. Be prepared! Have a plan and survival kit. Stay in touch with Council and other official channels so you are aware of developments.
Storms	Severe Weather Watches and Warnings are issued by MetService. Check your property before a storm and move to secure outdoor furniture and other items such as trampolines. Again, stay in touch with Council and other official channels for updates.
Tsunami	There is a tsunami risk to parts of the Waimate district. If there is a long and strong earthquake, remember the rule - if it's long, strong .... get gone! Don't wait for an official evacuation order - move to higher ground or as far inland as possible. For more information on tsunamis, click here Tsunami Evacuation Zones The tsunami evacuation zones have been identified and are categorised into two zones: Red Zone - evacuate if you feel a long (more than a minute) OR strong (hard to stand up) earthquake, or in any official tsunami warning. Orange zone - evacuate if you feel a long OR strong earthquake, or if you are told to in an official tsunami warning. For more information and a map of the zones, click here