14 Jan 2022 | 01:00 PM UTC
New Zealand: Adverse weather forecast in northeastern regions of North Island through at least Jan. 18
Heavy rainfall and strong winds forecast across northeastern New Zealand through at least Jan. 18. Possible disruptions.
Event
Cyclone Cody is expected to impact northeastern New Zealand as it approaches the waters north of the North Island Jan. 16, bringing heavy rainfall, strong winds, and rough seas to northeastern parts of the North Island through at least Jan. 18. Although Cody is not forecast to make direct landfall over the country and should pass well to the east, the New Zealand Met Service has stated there is moderate confidence that heavy rainfall and gale-force winds will impact Hawke's Bay, Gisborne, and the far east Bay of Plenty Jan. 17-18. There is low confidence of similar adverse weather further to the west and south over the rest of Bay of Plenty, Taupo, eastern Taihape, and Wairarapa. A heavy rain watch has been issued for Gisborne and the Wairoa District Jan. 16-17 and a strong wind watch for Bay of Plenty east of Whakatane and Gisborne north of Tokomaryu Bay. Watches are often issued when severe weather is likely to occur in over 24 hours but within 48-72 hours, and it is likely the watches could get upgraded to warnings as the adverse weather approaches. Heavy swell warnings are also in place for coastal areas. 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 heavy rainfall has saturated the soil. 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. Strong winds might also pose a hazard to high-profile vehicles. The disruptive weather may cause flight disruptions 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 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 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.
