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Responding to floods
What to do during a flood
During a flood, put safety first. If you see rising water, tell an adult. They should take you to high ground without an official warning. Take your grab bag with you in case you need your emergency supplies. If you have to leave, take your pets with you — if it’s not safe for you, it’s not safe for them.
Stay away from floodwater, as it may be contaminated and can make you sick. Never try to walk, swim or drive through flood water, it may be moving quickly and can sweep you away.
Stay informed
It’s important to know the different ways you can stay informed during an emergency.
Radio
If the power goes out, a solar or battery powered, or hand-cranked radio (or your car radio) can help you keep up to date with the latest news. In an emergency, tune to Radio New Zealand, The Hits, NewstalkZB, MoreFM or MagicTalk. Make sure you know what the frequencies for these stations are in your area. Keep a list of these with your emergency supplies.
Mobile phones
You may not have reception or network access on mobile phones in an emergency, or you may not have a mobile phone you can use. Keep a list of important phone numbers in case you can’t access digital devices.
Emergency Mobile Alerts
Emergency Mobile Alerts are a way of receiving information about emergencies in your area. If your life, health or property is in danger, Emergency Mobile Alerts can be sent to your mobile, without needing to sign up or download an app. This video explains how the EMA system works: https://youtu.be/dOQzGNYnr1k.
The alerts will come onto your phone like a text message and your phone will make a loud sound to alert you of a serious hazard. Agencies that will use this system include:
- Civil Defence Emergency Management
- New Zealand Police
- Fire Emergency New Zealand
- Ministry of Primary Industries
- Ministry of Health
Online
For local updates, check your council’s website, as well as your local Civil Defence Emergency Management (CDEM) Group website and social media. Find your region’s CDEM group here: https://www.civildefence.govt.nz/find-your-civil-defence-group/.
National updates will be available on the National Emergency Management Agency's website and @civildefence Twitter channel.
What to do after a flood
After a flood, only return home after Civil Defence and emergency services have told you it is safe to do so. It may not be safe to return home even when the floodwaters have gone. Look before you step. After a flood, the ground and floors may be slippery or covered with debris, including broken bottles and nails.
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