New Zealand's Cyclone Gabrielle claims the life of 11

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Agencies
19 Feb 2023 09:32

Cyclone Gabrielle, which hit New Zealand on February 12, continues to claim lives.

Cyclone Gabrielle Lashes New Zealand, February 14, 2023 (NASA).

The death toll from cyclone Gabrielle, which hit New Zealand on February 12, has increased to 11 according to the New Zealand Police.

As of Saturday, and according to the police, 5,608 reports of missing, or uncontactable individuals, have been registered amid flooding and landslides.

A state of emergency was declared throughout the country as the authorities attempt to provide those affected by the cyclone with the assistance they need.

It is worth noting that New Zealand's biggest city, Auckland, as well as 5 other regions, have been heavily affected by cyclone Gabrielle.

Earlier it was reported that there were only 9 confirmed deaths. However, according to the police, the death of an individual "believed to have died in circumstances related to Cyclone Gabrielle," is currently being investigated in Crownthrope, Hastings.

In Onekawa, Napier the police also confirmed another death related to the cyclone bringing the total death toll to 11.

Gabrielle is a sub-tropical low-pressure system that downgraded from a Category 2 cyclone. It hit Norfolk Island on Saturday night, with its most destructive winds missing the island before going south toward New Zealand.

"Our crews are responding as quickly and safely as they can, given the current weather conditions. As of 7pm [06:00 GMT], around 15,000 customers were without power," Vector added in a statement on February 12.

The expected deterioration of weather conditions could prompt further power outages through Monday, February 20.