Torrential Rains in New Zealand Leaves Three Dead, One Missing

Prime Minister Chris Hipkins of New Zealand reported on Saturday (01.28.2023) that torrential rains had led to three deaths and one missing person in the country’s largest city Auckland.

The Prime Minister, after visiting the affected areas, said, “The level of devastation in some areas is considerable.” He further noted that Auckland had “its wettest day on record” on Friday.

Police authorities said that two bodies were found in floodwater at two separate sites in the northern suburb of Auckland, while a third person died due to a landslide which brought down a house near the city center. The fourth person remains missing after being swept away by water in the south of the city.

Besides the casualties, the torrential rains resulted in streets turning into rivers, causing disruption in life. The local airport also had to be temporarily closed down.
This is the first major incident since Hipkins assumed office on Wednesday, following the resignation of Jacinda Ardern.
mg (afp, dpa)