A massive landslide has devastated areas of New Zealand, leaving several individuals missing and at least two people deceased. The turmoil resulted in the destruction of caravans, tents, and vehicles on the island.
Currently, six people are unaccounted for, with authorities seeking information on three more individuals, including two teenagers, one of whom is only 15 years old. Emergency responders are urgently working to rescue those trapped under debris.
Following heavy rainfall in recent days, parts of the east coast now resemble a “war zone,” according to Emergency Management Minister Mark Mitchell. Multiple regions, including Northland and the East Cape, have declared a state of emergency due to the landslides.
The first landslide struck Welcome Bay on New Zealand’s North Island early in the morning, followed by another one at Mount Maunganui Beachside Holiday Park, where numerous children are still missing. Rescuers reported hearing screams and witnessing holidaymakers fleeing the campground in panic.
Eyewitnesses described the harrowing scenes of the landslides, with one man recalling the sound of “rolling thunder” before the hillside collapsed, trapping people. The holiday park has been evacuated, and emergency responders are conducting a thorough search for any survivors.
Despite the tragic situation, rescue workers have not detected any signs of life at the campsite. Witnesses shared their accounts of the landslide, with one individual being hailed as a hero for warning others moments before being buried in the rubble.
The community is urged to avoid the affected areas as rescue operations continue. The incident has left a somber atmosphere as families and authorities come together to support those impacted by the landslides.