NZDF helps evacuate residents in flood-stricken areas
The New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) sent 25 personnel to Wanganui and the Manawatu region early this evening to help evacuate residents as heavy rains threaten to cause massive flooding in these areas.
“The priority is to help local authorities bring the residents to safer ground as the Whanganui River is expected to swell from heavy rains,” Air Commodore Kevin McEvoy, the Acting Commander Joint Forces New Zealand, said.
“The Defence Force is ready to provide further assistance in Whanganui and in Marton in the Manawatu if required, with additional personnel on standby.”
Apart from assisting in the evacuations, Air Commodore McEvoy said NZDF personnel would team up with NZ Police to check on residents in flood-stricken areas and lay sandbags to hold back floodwaters from homes and other properties.
Remnants of Cyclone Debbie have struck the North Island, bringing heavy rains that have caused massive slips and floods.
