15 Jul 2021 | 03:52 AM UTC
New Zealand: Heavy rainfall forecast in central and western regions through at least July 17
Heavy rainfall forecast in central and western New Zealand through at least July 17. Flash flooding, disruptions possible.
Event
Heavy rainfall is forecast in portions of central and western New Zealand through at least July 17. The affected areas include western Canterbury, western Manawatu-Wanganui, Marlborough, Taranaki, far southern Waikato, far southern and western Wellington, and West Coast regions. As of July 15, the New Zealand National Meteorological Service (MetService) has issued the following warnings:
Red Heavy Rain Warning (the highest level on a three-tier scale): Buller and Westland, north of Fox Glacier; 33-38 cm (13-15 inches) of rainfall could occur in these areas.
Orange Heavy Rain Warning(the middle level on a three-tier scale): Nelson, west of Motueka; Westland, south of Fox Glacier; the western ranges of Marlborough including the Richmond and Bryant ranges; the headwaters of the Canterbury lakes and rivers; 10-28 cm (4-11 inches) of rainfall could occur in these areas.
Yellow Heavy Rain Watch: Marlborough; Wellington; Central North Island hill country from Taranaki across to Tongariro National Park, including the headwaters of the Whanganui River; the Tararua Range
Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days.
Hazardous Conditions
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed or a lack of stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall. Power outages could occur throughout the affected area.
Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters. The disruptive weather may cause some delays and cancellations at regional airports. Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations along the Tasman Sea and Cook Strait if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions, impacting freight and passenger maritime traffic. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight cancellations are possible in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track blockages.
Disruptions triggered by inclement weather and resultant hazards, such as flooding, could persist well after conditions have improved - it could take days before any floodwaters recede and/or officials clear debris. If there is severe damage to infrastructure, repair or reconstruction efforts may result in residual disruptions.
Advice
Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays and potential supply chain disruptions where flooding has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
