04 Jan 2022 | 03:44 AM UTC
New Caledonia: Adverse weather forecast nationwide through at least Jan. 6
Heavy rainfall, strong winds, and flooding forecast across New Caledonia through at least Jan. 6. Disruptions ongoing.
Event
Thunderstorms with heavy rainfall, strong winds, and flooding are forecast to impact New Caledonia through at least Jan. 6. Authorities have issued yellow (lowest level on a three-tier scale) heavy rainfall and thunderstorm warnings across South Province and southern North Province as well as most of the Loyalty Islands through Jan. 5. Additional rain is forecast through at least Jan. 6. Authorities may issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming day.
Hazardous Conditions
The storms could produce rounds of heavy precipitation, strong winds, and isolated thunderstorm activity. 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
The severe weather will likely contribute to transport disruptions throughout the region. Reports indicate flooding on the RT1 at the southern entrance to La Foa, the RT3 at the Roussettes pass in Bourail, and the Koh pass in Kouaoua. A landslide has also occurred on the Col d'Amieu pass. The Rai network has suspended all services until further notice due to adverse weather conditions. Additional traffic and commercial trucking delays might occur along regional highways. Flooding downpours could inundate other low-lying roads in areas with poor drainage. Strong winds might also pose a hazard to high-profile vehicles. Floodwaters and related debris may render further bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around the affected area. Flooding in urban areas could also result in significant traffic congestion.
The disruptive weather will likely cause some delays and cancellations at regional airports. Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions, impacting freight and passenger maritime traffic. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas with 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 debris is cleared. If there is severe damage to infrastructure, repair or reconstruction efforts may result in residual disruptions.
Advice
Monitor local media for weather-related updates and advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business arrangements prior to travel in the affected area. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where severe weather is forecast; plan for possible supply chain disruptions throughout the affected areas. Stay away from elevated streams, creeks, and other watercourses that are prone to flash flooding. Do not attempt to navigate flooded roadways. Exercise caution in elevated terrain due to the threat of landslides. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
