Cyclone rescues continue in New Zealand

Rescues were continuing in New Zealand on Wednesday after a cyclone brought extensive flooding and landslides that claimed at least two lives. Cyclone Gabrielle struck the country’s north on Monday and has brought more destruction to this nation of 5 million than any weather event in years.Around 9,000 people have been forced from their homes since Monday, with several communities isolated by floodwaters and landslides.

The body of a volunteer firefighter was retrieved from a landslide that destroyed a flooded house near Auckland on Hawke’s Bay. A national emergency was declared Tuesday, enabling the government to support affected regions and provide additional resources. It is only the third national emergency ever declared.