Severe Tropical Cyclone Gabrielle Hits New Zealand and Norfolk Island

New Zealand stepped up recovery efforts after Cyclone Gabrielle. Cyclone Gabrielle has displaced 9,000 people and killed at least 5 people.

The 2022-23 cyclone season has brought yet another devastating tropical cyclone to the Pacific region. Severe Tropical Cyclone Gabrielle hit New Zealand and Norfolk Island, causing widespread damage and flooding.

Gabrielle was first identified as a developing tropical low on 6 February, south of the Solomon Islands. It quickly intensified, reaching Category 3 status as a severe tropical cyclone, before moving into the South Pacific basin. However, it rapidly degenerated into a subtropical low on 11 February.

Norfolk Island was placed under a red alert as Gabrielle approached, while heavy rain and wind warnings were issued across the North Island of New Zealand. States of emergency were extended in Auckland and the Coromandel, which were already in place as a result of the 2023 North Island floods. New states of emergency were also declared in other areas.

Gabrielle impacted New Zealand from 12 February to 16 February, causing widespread damage and flooding. A national state of emergency was declared in the country on 14 February, as the cyclone continued to cause havoc. The authorities warned residents to stay indoors and avoid any non-essential travel.

The cyclone caused significant damage to infrastructure, buildings, and homes. Flooding and landslides were also reported in several areas. The authorities are still assessing the extent of the damage caused by Gabrielle and are providing relief and support to affected communities.