New Zealand: Weather warnings issued for parts of South Island February 16-17

Event

New Zealand’s MetService issued heavy rain warnings and watches for parts of South Island on the morning (local time) of Friday, February 14, as former Tropical Cyclone Uesi moves towards the region. A heavy rain warning is in effect from 04:00 on Sunday, February 16, through 04:00 on Monday, February 17, for Westland south of Otira. Heavy rain watches for most of the rest of the west coast of South Island are also in effect from Sunday into Monday. The low-pressure system is expected to bring heavy rain, strong winds, and dangerous sea conditions and hit areas that have recently been impacted by severe rain and flooding. Met officials warned that more areas will likely be added to the warnings and watches as the storm nears South Island. Up-to-date information can be found on the Met website here.

Associated flooding, landslides, transportation and business disruptions, as well as disruptions to power and communication services, are possible.

Advice

Individuals in the affected area are advised to monitor local weather reports, avoid areas directly affected by flooding, confirm road conditions and flight status before setting out, anticipate transportation and business disruptions, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities. Avoid walking or driving through floodwaters; 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult.