New Caledonia: Flooding on Grande Terre due to cyclone March 28-29

Event

Several roads have been flooded and schools have been closed on Grande Terre Island following the passage of Tropical Cyclone Iris. New Caledonia’s meteorological department issued a red alert at 06:00 (local time) on Wednesday, March 28, for heavy rain and thunderstorms for the eastern coast of Grande Terre; the alert has since been downgraded to orange. The meteorological department continues to advise heightened vigilance throughout the territory due to the risk of landslides.

Context

The regional cyclone season typically lasts from November to April, although storms can occur outside this period.

Advice

Individuals present in New Caledonia are advised to monitor local weather reports and follow all instructions as issued by local authorities (e.g. evacuation orders). In the event of flooding, remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult - and that floodwater may contain wastewater or chemical products; all items having come into contact with the water should be disinfected and all foodstuffs discarded.