Napier Civil Defence downgrade to monitor status

Napier Civil Defence has advised that it is stepping down to a monitoring position. Its Emergency Operations Centre was activated after a tsunami warning was issued as a result of the 8.8 magnitude earthquake near the coast of Central Chile on 27 February 2010.

It is important, however, that people continue to stay away from coastal areas, rivers and estuaries for the remainder of the day as unusual wave patterns caused by the tsunami are likely to continue for several hours. Strong and unpredictable surges are expected, especially at high tide at 1802hrs. Boaties should be cautious as strong currents are still a high risk for the next 10-12 hours.

Napier Civil Defence will continue to monitor the situation and advises people to listen to the radio and see television for updates.

For further information contact:
Angela Reade, Civil Defence Manager, 027 470 1257.


Useful websites:
www.napier.govt.nz
www.getthru.govt.nz
www.civildefence.govt.nz
www.geonet.org.nz/tsunami/